NFL Teams Draft QBs While Aaron Rodgers' Future Remains Unclear
The Steelers and Cardinals selected quarterback prospects Friday night as uncertainty around the veteran signal-caller continues.
Two NFL franchises moved forward with their quarterback plans Friday night, selecting college prospects in the third round of the draft even as Aaron Rodgers' status for the 2025 season remains unresolved.
The Pittsburgh Steelers chose former Penn State quarterback Drew Allar with a third-round selection, while the Arizona Cardinals picked Carson Beck, who played at Georgia and Miami, at No. 65 overall. Both moves signal that teams are prioritizing long-term roster stability over waiting for clarity on the veteran quarterback's intentions.
Steelers Add Penn State Product
Pittsburgh's selection of Allar addresses a position group that has lacked a clear developmental prospect. The Steelers made the pick despite ongoing speculation about whether Rodgers might become available if he decides to continue his playing career. Allar started multiple seasons for the Nittany Lions and brings experience in a pro-style offense.
The franchise has not publicly tied the selection to Rodgers' timeline, but the decision reflects a broader league trend: teams are unwilling to pause their draft strategies while waiting for veteran quarterbacks to make up their minds.
Cardinals Complicate QB Picture
Arizona's choice of Beck adds another layer to an already uncertain quarterback situation in the desert. Beck transferred from Georgia to Miami for his final college season, showcasing arm talent and mobility. The Cardinals now have multiple signal-callers on the roster, creating competition and depth but also raising questions about the team's long-term vision at the position.
By drafting Beck at No. 65, Arizona signaled it is not waiting on external developments to shape its quarterback room. The pick gives the coaching staff options and insurance, regardless of what happens with veteran free agents or trade candidates.
The Rodgers Factor
Rodgers has not announced whether he will play in 2025, retire, or seek a trade to a new team. His prolonged decision-making process has become a familiar storyline in recent offseasons, leaving franchises in limbo as they try to finalize rosters and prepare for the upcoming campaign.
Teams that might have considered pursuing the four-time MVP are instead investing draft capital in younger quarterbacks. The Steelers and Cardinals join a growing list of clubs that have opted to develop their own talent rather than wait for a veteran solution that may never materialize.
League-Wide Implications
The third-round selections of Allar and Beck reflect a shift in how NFL front offices approach the quarterback position. Rather than banking on short-term fixes or aging stars, organizations are prioritizing draft-and-develop models that offer cost control and long-term upside.
This draft class featured multiple quarterbacks selected in the first three rounds, underscoring the premium teams place on finding franchise signal-callers. The Steelers and Cardinals are betting that homegrown prospects will provide more sustainable success than chasing high-profile veterans with uncertain futures.
What we know: The Steelers drafted Drew Allar and the Cardinals selected Carson Beck in the third round Friday night, both addressing quarterback needs while Aaron Rodgers' playing future remains undecided. What's unclear: Whether Rodgers will play in 2025, retire, or request a trade, and how his eventual decision will affect teams that passed on waiting for him.
Frequently asked
Why did the Steelers draft a quarterback?
Pittsburgh selected Drew Allar to add a developmental prospect at the position, addressing long-term roster needs rather than waiting for veteran options like Aaron Rodgers to clarify their plans.
What does Carson Beck's selection mean for Arizona?
The Cardinals now have multiple quarterbacks on the roster, creating competition and depth while signaling the team is building through the draft instead of relying on external veteran acquisitions.
Has Aaron Rodgers announced his plans for 2025?
No. Rodgers has not publicly stated whether he will play next season, retire, or seek a trade, leaving teams uncertain about his availability.
Are other teams drafting quarterbacks this year?
Yes. Multiple franchises selected quarterbacks in the first three rounds, reflecting a league-wide emphasis on developing homegrown talent at the position.