Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy isn't just open to the idea of reuniting with Aaron Rodgers—he's downright giddy about it. During a press conference this weekend, McCarthy was asked directly about the possibility of adding the 42-year-old quarterback to the team's roster, and his response was anything but coy.
“Three quarterbacks is the normal. Four would be awesome,” McCarthy said with a grin, via ESPN's Brooke Pryor. The comment came amid ongoing contract drama between Rodgers and the Steelers, with the veteran signal-caller still mulling his future in the league.
A Familiar Face in a New Place
McCarthy and Rodgers share a deep history, having spent 13 seasons together in Green Bay from 2006 to 2018. That partnership produced a Super Bowl title and countless memorable moments, but it also ended with some tension when McCarthy was fired midseason in 2018. Now, with both men in Pittsburgh, the possibility of a reunion has fans buzzing.
The Steelers currently have three quarterbacks on the roster, but adding a fourth—especially one of Rodgers' caliber—would be a major statement. McCarthy's enthusiasm suggests he's fully on board with the move, even if it means reshuffling the depth chart.
Positive Vibes from the Front Office
Steelers general manager Omar Khan echoed McCarthy's optimism during an appearance on SiriusXM radio, revealing that discussions with Rodgers and his camp have been productive. “We had a really cool year with Aaron last year,” Khan said on Friday. “Good person, really intelligent person. I’ve said before, pound-for-pound, one of the toughest people I’ve ever been around. He really is.”
Khan added that the lines of communication remain open. “We’ve had positive communications. I know Mike has talked to him, I’ve talked to him. I, obviously, communicate with his representatives. We’ve had good conversations throughout the process. That’s how it is. It’s part of the process. But it’s been good. It’s been positive. … He’s certainly a good teammate. He’s been fun to have around. We think very highly of him.”
Those comments paint a picture of a team that is not just waiting on Rodgers, but actively courting him. All signs point to the Steelers leaving the light on for the four-time MVP, should he decide to return for another season.
What's Next for Rodgers and the Steelers?
While no deal is imminent, the momentum appears to be building. Rodgers visited Pittsburgh recently, and the team has made it clear they want him back. For McCarthy, the chance to coach his former star quarterback again is a tantalizing prospect—one that could reshape the AFC landscape.
Of course, the situation isn't without its complications. Rodgers' age and recent injury history raise questions, but both McCarthy and Khan seem unfazed. If anything, they're leaning into the nostalgia and potential of a reunion that seemed unlikely just a few years ago.
As the NFL offseason heats up, all eyes will be on Pittsburgh to see if this partnership becomes a reality. For now, McCarthy's smile says it all: he's ready for Round 2 with number 12.
