The Pittsburgh Steelers knew when they signed Aaron Rodgers that it was, more likely than not, a one-year partnership.
If that comes to fruition, and if Rodgers indeed retires, then the Steelers will need a new quarterback for 2026.
It's unlikely they'd rely on Mason Rudolph or Will Howard as the main option, so they'll have to look outside the organization.
It's also unlikely they'll be picking high enough in the draft to get someone who feels even a bit like a sure thing.
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That leaves free agency, and Bleacher Report's Alex Kay has a pitch for who they should sign: Malik Willis.
Willis is the Green Bay Packers' backup QB to Jordan Love, and each time he has filled in for Love in the last two seasons, Willis has impressed.
"Although Willis struggled to find his footing after being drafted by the Tennessee Titans in 2022, he has fared well in limited action backing up Jordan Love for the Green Bay Packers," Kay writes. "It's worth gambling on the upside he's displayed in Titletown, potentially giving Pittsburgh a quality starter at a budget cost (Spotrac estimates Willis' market value at just $10.6 million per year)."
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Willis could serve as a bridge quarterback to whoever the Steelers pursue for the long term.
Or, in an even better outcome, he could prove that he's a long-term starting QB himself.
Even if it backfires, it shouldn't set Pittsburgh back for too long.
"If Rodgers retires and Willis regresses during his time with the Steelers, the team could still capitalize on the signing," Kay writes. "A rare down year in Pittsburgh would net the club an early pick in 2027, affording a chance to secure a premium QB prospect to build around."
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