Pittsburgh Steelers General Manager Omar Khan publicly stated the team is open to bringing back quarterback Aaron Rodgers for the 2026 season, a move that underscores the franchise’s current instability at the position.
Khan’s comments, made at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, came after Rodgers’ disappointing playoff performance with the Steelers – a 30-6 loss to the Houston Texans where he threw for 146 yards and one interception. “It was a great experience with Aaron,” Khan told reporters. “He knows how we feel, we’ve had some good conversations, pretty certain we’ll have an answer sooner or later.”
The potential for Rodgers’ return, even at age 42, highlights a decade-long failure by the Steelers to develop a long-term solution at quarterback, according to one NFL Scouting Director who spoke anonymously. “Rodgers simply isn’t the answer, but they don’t have any other options, either,” the director said.
The Steelers’ recent personnel decisions have also drawn criticism. The director specifically cited the trades for DK Metcalf and Jalen Ramsey as detrimental to the locker room, characterizing them as additions of “selfish players.” The director also suggested that head coach Mike Tomlin’s increased involvement in personnel decisions contributed to the team’s struggles, drawing a parallel to Sean Payton’s departure from New Orleans.
The NFL Scouting Combine is taking place at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis from February 26th through March 1st. Fans can attend the free “INSIDE LOOK” event, with registration available through the NFL OnePass app, which opened on January 25, 2026. The event will feature drills and opportunities to see prospects before the NFL Draft. The NFL’s clear bag policy will be in effect and access is not guaranteed due to capacity limitations.
A separate event, the NFL Combine Meetup & Fundraiser, is scheduled for Friday, February 27th, at Sun King Brewery in downtown Indianapolis. The fundraiser, featuring Kalyn Kahler and other NFL insiders, will benefit the Riley Children’s Hospital Foundation. Tickets are $25. A similar event was held at the same location on February 28, 2025, but is now sold out.
