Will Aaron Rodgers suit up? Mike McCarthy outlines preseason plans for Steelers QB

As the Pittsburgh Steelers continue training camp, many are curious about how new head coach Mike McCarthy will handle veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers ahead of the season, particularly regarding preseason games. McCarthy has to manage Rodgers’ usage as the team hopes to target a deep postseason run.

While some reports indicate Rodgers could see up to 40 preseason snaps, including matchups against his former teams, the Green Bay Packers and the New York Jets, McCarthy offered a fluid perspective when asked directly about his signal-caller’s preseason status.

Addressing the media ahead of practice, beat reporter Nick Farabaugh shared McCarthy’s exact stance on X.

“Mike McCarthy on Aaron Rodgers playing the preseason: ‘We have plans … he’d like to play. I’d like to see him play. But we won’t make a decision until we get all the way up to it.'”

Mike McCarthy on Aaron Rodgers playing the preseason:

“We have plans … he’d like to play. I’d like to see him play. But we won’t make a decision until we get all the way up to it.”

— Nick Farabaugh (@FarabaughFB) August 3, 2026

McCarthy’s comments highlight a delicate balancing act. On one hand, reuniting with his former Packers coach provides Rodgers with familiar terminology and system concepts.

On the other hand, risking a 42-year-old franchise passer in August exhibition games carries obvious injury risks. Rodgers did not take a single preseason snap last year and has rarely taken extended exhibition reps over the past decade.

However, building timing within Pittsburgh’s restructured offense remains vital. McCarthy acknowledged that an internal framework exists, but final decisions will depend on the offensive line’s health, roster dynamics, and overall camp progression.

Moreover, giving Rodgers snaps reduces live evaluation opportunities for backup quarterbacks vying for critical roster spots and playing time.

For now, Steelers fans must wait as games draw near. While both the player and the coach express interest in preseason snaps, McCarthy’s measured approach ensures that any final call regarding Rodgers’ availability will be made right up to kickoff.

This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Will Aaron Rodgers suit up? Mike McCarthy outlines preseason plans for Steelers QB