The Pittsburgh Steelers have officially unveiled Mike McCarthy as their new head coach, bringing an end to Mike Tomlin’s 19-year spell in charge.
McCarthy, who has previously led both the Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys, steps into the role with some major decisions awaiting him — chief among them the future of the team’s quarterback position.
Aaron Rodgers, who arrived in Pittsburgh last offseason on a one-year deal at the age of 42, has yet to confirm whether he will return for the 2026 campaign. Steelers owner Art Rooney II revealed that clarity on Rodgers’ situation could come “within the next month or so.”
Despite McCarthy’s long-standing relationship with Rodgers from their time together in Green Bay, Rooney was keen to stress that the appointment had nothing to do with the veteran quarterback. He insisted the decision was based purely on McCarthy being the right fit for the organisation, regardless of Rodgers’ plans.
Pittsburgh’s quarterback picture extends beyond Rodgers. The Steelers selected Will Howard in the sixth round of last year’s draft, while experienced backup Mason Rudolph has recently agreed to a new two-year contract. Rooney noted that McCarthy is particularly high on Howard, highlighting the young passer’s “tremendous upside.”
Rodgers, who spent 18 seasons with the Packers and two years with the New York Jets before joining the Steelers, has remained noncommittal about his future.
After Pittsburgh’s wild-card defeat to the Houston Texans, he admitted he did not want to rush into an “emotional decision,” describing his first season with the franchise as both demanding and rewarding, despite the frustration of an early playoff exit.
As McCarthy begins his tenure, the Steelers are entering a period of transition, with a full evaluation of the quarterback room and wider roster now underway. His experience will be key as the franchise looks to shape a new identity and develop younger talent, including Howard.
While Rodgers’ future remains unresolved, Pittsburgh’s focus is firmly on the bigger picture. The club is prioritising long-term stability and growth under McCarthy, rather than hinging their plans on the possible return of a veteran quarterback. The coming weeks are set to determine whether Rodgers stays on or if a new chapter at quarterback begins in Pittsburgh.
