Pittsburgh Steelers ready to dump Aaron Rodgers pursuit as Kirk Cousins trade gains shocking traction

As the Pittsburgh Steelers continue waiting for clarity on Aaron Rodgers’ future, a new quarterback candidate may be rising to the surface. While Rodgers has made several appearances in Pittsburgh during the offseason—including a private throwing session with DK Metcalf—his ongoing hesitation to sign a contract has left fans frustrated and the front office in a holding pattern.Aaron Rodgers has stated he’s dealing with personal matters this offseason, but with the 2025 NFL season approaching fast, time is becoming a luxury the Steelers cannot afford.Despite the early optimism that the future Hall of Famer would join Pittsburgh after parting ways with the New York Jets, nothing has materialized, and now the franchise might be rethinking its plans.During a recent segment on The Pat McAfee Show, ESPN insider Peter Schrager introduced a surprising twist: veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins could be on the Steelers’ radar as a trade target if Rodgers doesn’t sign.“I still think Kirk Cousins is a viable trade candidate if Aaron Rodgers doesn't land in Pittsburgh,” Schrager said. “I would keep an eye on that one.”Cousins, currently with the Atlanta Falcons, has had a turbulent year. He returned from a torn Achilles suffered in 2023 with the Vikings and posted respectable numbers: 3,508 passing yards, 18 touchdowns, and 16 interceptions in 14 games. However, turnovers plagued his performance, and by season’s end, he was replaced by rookie Michael Penix Jr.Despite his limitations—namely, a lack of mobility—Cousins remains a durable, experienced option who could stabilize Pittsburgh’s offense. His name had previously surfaced in connection with the Steelers earlier this offseason, but Rodgers’ availability pushed that narrative to the backburner.Now, with the Rodgers saga dragging on and no clear resolution in sight, Pittsburgh may be forced to make a tough call. Trading for Cousins would require negotiation with Atlanta, but it could give the team a reliable alternative to the aging Rodgers, who still hasn’t fully committed to playing in 2025.Also Read: Aaron Rodgers accused of sabotaging Jets as Steelers gamble on trade and wait for his ‘perfect injury’ opportunityAs things stand, the Steelers are approaching a crossroads. If Rodgers doesn’t make a decision soon, Pittsburgh could pivot and pursue Cousins—a move that, while unexpected, might offer the stability the team desperately needs heading into the new season.