Steelers plans hit snag as Mike McCarthy gets bad news tied to Aaron Rodgers future

Things are not moving smoothly for the Pittsburgh Steelers right now. Just as Mike McCarthy settles into his new role, the team has hit an unexpected roadblock tied to its future quarterback plans. A coaching decision that seemed minor on the surface has now raised real questions about whether Aaron Rodgers’ return to Pittsburgh can move forward as hoped.

The issue centers on the Steelers’ search for an offensive coordinator. One name stood out early, and many around the league believed that hire could quietly help shape the quarterback room. That hope faded quickly this week. According to a trusted league source, the coach the Steelers wanted is no longer leaving his current team. That news has shifted the mood around Pittsburgh’s offseason plans.

Mike McCarthy and Aaron Rodgers plans take hit after Scott Tolzien decision

NFL insider Jordan Schultz reported that Scott Tolzien will stay put with the New Orleans Saints. Tolzien, who coaches quarterbacks in New Orleans, interviewed for the Steelers’ offensive coordinator job but decided not to make the move.

Schultz shared the update on X, writing, “Sources: Saints QBs coach Scott Tolzien plans to remain in New Orleans after interviewing for the Steelers OC job. He was viewed as a top candidate for the job, but will remain with Kellen Moore to continue developing Tyler Shough.”

For Steelers fans, that news landed hard. Tolzien’s past connection to Aaron Rodgers was seen as important. Some believed his presence in Pittsburgh could help smooth talks around Rodgers’ future and possibly an extension.



With Tolzien staying in New Orleans, that link is now gone, and the path feels less clear. There is another layer to this situation.

New head coach Mike McCarthy has already said he plans to call offensive plays himself. That choice limits how much control any offensive coordinator would have on game day.

Around the league, that kind of setup can turn away experienced coaches who want a bigger voice. As a result, the Steelers may face a smaller pool of candidates willing to accept the role.

That could slow down other decisions, including what happens next at quarterback. Nothing is final yet, but this setback has added pressure to an already delicate offseason in Pittsburgh.




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