The Steelers’ hiring of Mike McCarthy has many observers sensing that Aaron Rodgers could be on his way back to Pittsburgh — and a McCarthy–Rodgers reunion feels increasingly likely. FOX Sports’ Greg Orman predicted the Steelers would land three players from his top-100 free-agent list, with Rodgers among the potential additions and the other two coming from outside the organization.
According to Over the Cap, Pittsburgh has roughly $45 million in projected salary-cap space this offseason, giving the team some financial flexibility if it wants to pursue Rodgers.
Here’s a closer look at Orman’s specific predictions for the Steelers:
– Running back (listed as No. 57 and No. 5 on Orman’s free-agent board): Orman notes a 27-year-old back who posted back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons split between the Cowboys and Panthers, with nearly identical stat lines. Last year he signed a $2.75 million deal with Carolina and then earned another $2.75 million in incentives. Carolina appears to be counting on him, but he could become available — and Orman wonders whether McCarthy would try to bring him into a Dallas-to-Pittsburgh reunion.
– Safety Brian Cook (listed No. 29 and No. 2 at the position): Orman describes Cook, 26, as a quietly reliable coverage player who doesn’t make flashy plays but provides steady play — three interceptions, one sack and no forced fumbles over four Kansas City seasons. Cook could rise in analytics rankings, but with Kansas City facing one of the tightest cap situations, the Chiefs will have to prioritize which young talents to re-sign.
– Re-signing quarterback Aaron Rodgers (No. 12 overall, the No. 3 QB on Orman’s list): Orman says the 42-year-old Rodgers is weighing retirement versus returning for a 22nd NFL season, and McCarthy’s presence in Pittsburgh could be a persuasive factor. After signing a one-year, $14 million deal last season, Rodgers would be well-positioned to join a Steelers team on a team-friendly contract and help them contend in the AFC North; Orman also points to recent season stats and potential milestones as context for Rodgers’ decision.
Fan Take: A Rodgers–McCarthy pairing in Pittsburgh would be one of the biggest storylines of the offseason — it could instantly shift the AFC North pecking order and draw major national attention. For fans, it’s a high-stakes move that could prolong a Hall of Fame career while reshaping playoff expectations and TV interest across the league.
