The Pittsburgh Steelers are exploring various options as they seek a new starting quarterback for the upcoming season. The team has shown no genuine efforts to keep Russell Wilson, while Justin Fields inked a two-year, $40 million contract with the New York Jets last week. Pittsburgh is said to be fully committed to free agent Aaron Rodgers, although sources suggest he is not rushing to decide on next season. The Steelers have been associated with veteran players Joe Flacco and Jameis Winston, and it is possible that they may select a quarterback early in next month’s draft. While the Steelers are said to be fine with Rodgers taking his time to respond, legendary coach Bill Cowher, who guided Pittsburgh to a 149-90-1 record and a Super Bowl title in 15 seasons as head coach, thinks the team should proceed with caution in its chase for the four-time MVP. “Is he still able to throw it?” “Indeed,” Cowher remarked on the “Dan Patrick Show” on Thursday. “Is he agile enough?” I believe so. But does he genuinely want to participate? I mean, the more you delay, you can’t help but question. Where lies his heart, and how much does he truly desire to accomplish it? “When a person begins discussing retirement, they’ve already marked that option, meaning they’ve somewhat disengaged.” So to what extent is he driven to come here and contribute to the effort of winning a championship, thereby serving as a connection to the next individual?
Cowher mentions that there remains a possibility of Rodgers joining Pittsburgh, but he thinks the team’s leaders must consistently reach out to him. “I believe he’s eager to play, and I also wonder, where does he wish to play?” Cowher remarked. “Those discussions require you to be sure that his true feelings lie there.” “You need to maintain regular communication with him from that perspective.”
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There remains a possibility that Rodgers may choose not to return for his 21st season and instead decides to retire. However, there are others in the league who think the 41-year-old prefers not to end his career on a dreary note. In 2024, Rodgers recorded a 5-12 record with the Jets, and certain insiders have suggested that he might be lured to assume the starting position on a playoff team that recently acquired star wide receiver DK Metcalf.