On Saturday, the Pittsburgh Steelers announced that they are bringing in Mike McCarthy as the new coach of the franchise. This was their first coaching change in 18 years after Mike Tomlin’s resignation following the 2025 season.

With McCarthy taking over the reins, a new chapter is set to begin in Pittsburgh. However, there is still an air of uncertainty regarding the return of four-time NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers. His one-year deal came to an end after he helped the team finish first in the AFC North and make it to the wild-card round of the playoffs.

Following Mike McCarthy’s hiring, Skip Bayless decided to take a subtle snipe at Aaron Rodgers. He believes that both parties will find it difficult to function cohesively. He then questioned if the 42-year-old quarterback still had any fuel left in his tank.

“MIKE MCCARTHY (and maybe what’s left of Aaron Rodgers) WILL NOT WORK IN PITTSBURGH.”

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During the 2025 season, Aaron Rodgers recorded 3,322 yards and 24 TDs passing. After Mike Tomlin’s resignation, Steelers owner Art Rooney II clarified that the quarterback had specifically agreed to play for them because of the former coach.

“Aaron came here to play for Mike (Tomlin). So it will most likely affect his decision.” Art Rooney II said.

However, Rodgers and McCarthy have quite a history together. The latter served as the Green Bay Packers coach from 2006 to 2018. He and the four-time NFL MVP went on to win Super Bowl XLV together.

McCarthy then took over the Dallas Cowboys in 2020. However, after a disappointing 7-10 campaign in 2024, he was fired, making way for Brian Schottenheimer as his replacement.

Stephen A. Smith doubtful about Mike McCarthy’s hiring by the Pittsburgh Steelers

Mike McCarthy is an experienced coach in the league with a Super Bowl championship under his belt. However, despite these achievements, Stephen A.Smith is still doubtful if he can help lead the Steelers to success.

After announcing him as Mike Tomlin’s replacement, Smith shared a tweet on X, questioning whether he was the correct choice for the franchise. He also highlighted the issues in the team’s quarterback room.

“Record-wise, good hire. But is that really going to change the culture of the @steelers-especially if that QB rooom doesn’t get fixed??? That’s the question.”

The Steelers have had issues in their quarterback department since Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement in 2022. He spent 18 seasons with the franchise and won two Super Bowls with them.

Even if Aaron Rodgers doesn’t return for another year, the Steelers have Mason Rudolph and rookie Will Howard as options on the depth chart for the upcoming season.