Steelers owner Art Rooney II clarifies Mike McCarthy’s hire was not linked to Aaron Rodgers’ return | NFL News
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ decision to hire Mike McCarthy as head coach immediately sparked speculation around one familiar name: Aaron Rodgers. Given their long and successful history in Green Bay, many assumed the move was designed to entice the veteran quarterback into returning for another season. That narrative, however, was quickly addressed by ownership.Steelers owner Art Rooney II moved to shut down that assumption, stressing that the organization’s coaching hire was driven by football philosophy rather than quarterback uncertainty. While Rodgers’ future remains unresolved, Rooney made it clear the franchise’s priority was finding the right leader for the next phase of Steelers football.
Mike McCarthy’s hire driven by Steelers’ long-term vision rather than Aaron Rodgers’ status
Speaking to Steelers.com, Rooney said Rodgers’ potential return “did not weigh heavily” in the decision to bring McCarthy on board. The owner emphasized that the hire was made strictly on McCarthy’s credentials and fit with the organization’s long-term goals. “We didn’t want the coaching decision tied to one player’s future,” Rooney said. “This was about putting the right leadership in place for where the team is going.” Discussions with Rodgers may still happen, but Rooney indicated those conversations will come later, once the quarterback decides his next step.The connection between McCarthy and Rodgers is well established. McCarthy coached Rodgers from 2006 to 2018 with the Green Bay Packers, a stretch that included a Super Bowl title in 2010 and two MVP awards for the quarterback. Rodgers clarified publicly in 2022 that there was no lingering tension between the two, a point echoed by multiple league insiders in recent reporting.That history has fueled league-wide speculation that McCarthy’s arrival creates a natural pathway for Rodgers to return. Still, reports suggest the outcome is far from certain. ESPN’s Adam Schefter has indicated that another season in Pittsburgh is unlikely, noting that Rodgers has neither committed to retiring nor returning and intends to take time away before making a decision.On the field, Rodgers is coming off a productive season, throwing for 3,322 yards with 24 touchdowns and seven interceptions while helping Pittsburgh reach the playoffs. Even so, the Steelers appear prepared for multiple scenarios. Rooney noted that McCarthy is comfortable with the current quarterback room, particularly with a young passer on the roster who offers developmental upside.Whether Rodgers ultimately returns or not, the Steelers’ messaging remains consistent. McCarthy’s hiring signals a commitment to stability and structure, with the organization focused on building a contender that extends beyond any single player’s timeline.
