GREAT MOVE: Steelers rumor reveals Pittsburgh's $71 million 'Plan B' if Aaron Rodgers retires
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania — As the 2026 NFL season approaches and the free agency period draws near, the Pittsburgh Steelers are facing a major question regarding the future of veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers. According to multiple league sources, Rodgers has yet to make a final decision about whether he will return for another season or retire, leaving Pittsburgh’s front office preparing contingency plans.
Reports around the league suggest the Steelers have already identified a potential “Plan B” should Rodgers decide to step away from the game. The name gaining the most attention is Malik Willis, the young quarterback who most recently played for the Green Bay Packers. Financial projections around the league indicate that Willis could command a two-year deal worth approximately $71 million if he enters free agency.
Willis, 26, was once viewed as one of the more intriguing quarterback prospects entering the NFL. Although his early career didn’t immediately take off, he began showing encouraging flashes during his time in Green Bay. Known for his strong arm, elite athleticism, and ability to extend plays outside the pocket, Willis has developed into a player many teams believe still has significant upside.
Over the past two seasons, Willis primarily served as a backup behind Jordan Love. However, during limited opportunities on the field, he demonstrated flashes of the dynamic skill set that made him an intriguing prospect coming out of college. His mobility and improvisational ability fit well with the evolving style of modern NFL offenses.
Sources close to the Steelers organization indicate the team has been closely monitoring Willis’ situation in case Rodgers decides not to return. Preparing a backup plan is seen as a necessary move for a franchise that still believes it can compete in a highly competitive AFC.
“We fully respect whatever decision Aaron Rodgers ultimately makes and we’ll wait for him to take the time he needs,” a source within the Steelers organization said. “But in the NFL, you always have to prepare for every scenario. If things change, we want to make sure this team still has the ability to compete.”
Of course, pursuing Willis would not come without risk. He still has limited experience as a starting quarterback and his overall sample size in the league remains small. Still, his youth and long-term potential could make him an appealing gamble for Pittsburgh.
For now, the Steelers continue to wait for Rodgers’ decision. But if the future Hall of Fame quarterback decides to retire, Malik Willis could become the unexpected beginning of a new era in Pittsburgh.
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