Steelers eye former Dolphins Pro Bowler as potential Aaron Rodgers backup plan in bold offseason move

The Pittsburgh Steelers appear to be in a holding pattern, waiting patiently on a decision from one of football’s most iconic figures—Aaron Rodgers. The 41-year-old quarterback, who was released by the New York Jets earlier this offseason, has yet to make his NFL future clear. While retirement remains a legitimate possibility, whispers across the league hint that Pittsburgh may be his preferred landing spot should he choose to play in 2025.This ongoing uncertainty has created a cloud of suspense around the Steelers' quarterback situation. With the team reportedly putting its plans on pause until Aaron Rodgers reaches a decision, other potential suitors have come into the conversation. Among them is former Miami Dolphins quarterback Tyler Huntley, who continues to float in the free-agent market.Though Huntley isn't the marquee name that Rodgers is, the 2022 Pro Bowl selection has demonstrated flashes of promise. CBS Sports’ Bryan DeArdo highlighted Huntley's potential upside and pitfalls, writing, "Huntley has made 15 starts in his NFL career. In those games, he displayed an ability to make big plays both through the air and on the ground. He also largely kept his teams in contention." However, DeArdo did not shy away from addressing Huntley's inconsistencies, adding, "His biggest issue, however, is taking care of the ball... Huntley has nearly as many career interceptions (11) as he has touchdown passes (13).”Most recently, Huntley was thrust into action in Miami during Tua Tagovailoa’s five-game absence in the 2024 season. Although the Dolphins posted a 2-3 record during that stretch, Huntley showed poise and mobility. He completed 64.7% of his passes, throwing for 829 yards, three touchdowns, and three interceptions, while adding two rushing scores. His 80.1 passer rating was modest but reflective of a quarterback still growing into a more consistent role.Meanwhile, the Dolphins have restocked their quarterback room, bringing in Zach Wilson during free agency and selecting Quinn Ewers in the seventh round of the 2025 NFL Draft. That development has made Huntley expendable, and Pittsburgh could be a natural fit—especially if the Rodgers saga ends with the veteran opting for retirement or another destination.Still, a pivot from a future Hall of Famer to a mid-tier backup might feel like a steep drop to many fans. Yet, in the ever-unpredictable world of the NFL, such transitions are far from rare. As DeArdo noted, "While there are still parts of his game that need refining, Huntley would nonetheless be a very viable option for the Steelers if Rodgers decides to spend the 2025 season doing something else with his time."With the offseason ticking away, all eyes remain on Rodgers. But in the wings, Huntley quietly waits—ready for his next opportunity, should the door to Pittsburgh crack open.Also Read: Baltimore Ravens release Justin Tucker after multiple massage therapists accuse him of misconduct