Ranking the AFC North QBs: Who Steps In if Aaron Rodgers is Out?

Where Are You, Aaron Rodgers?

As we head into the 2026 NFL season, fans are left wondering about the future of Aaron Rodgers. The uncertainty surrounding his potential retirement or return leaves the Pittsburgh Steelers in a precarious position. With Rodgers unsigned and four months to go, it's time to assess the remaining quarterbacks in the AFC North.

Aside from Pittsburgh, the division boasts some elite talent. This article takes a closer look at the top contenders while evaluating the strategies and characters that define them.

AFC North Quarterback Rankings

1. Lamar Jackson (Baltimore Ravens)

Lamar Jackson is undoubtedly the engine powering the Ravens. His dual-threat capabilities make him a nightmare for defenses. When he struggled with an injury last season, the entire team's performance mirrored his absence—highlighting just how integral he is to their success. If he remains healthy, Jackson is not only a contender for the MVP but a vital force for the Ravens' playoff aspirations.

2. Joe Burrow (Cincinnati Bengals)

In any other division, Joe Burrow might reign supreme. However, sharing the field with Jackson sets the stakes high. Burrow's ability to lead his team has been hindered by injuries in previous seasons, creating a critical juncture for both him and the Bengals this upcoming season. With playoff hopes on the line, Burrow must find a way to flip the script and guide Cincinnati back to the postseason.

3. Shedeur Sanders (Cleveland Browns)

Shedeur Sanders enters the spotlight, positioned behind Jackson and Burrow. It's a position of both opportunity and pressure. With the uncertainty about Rodgers, Sanders and other potential candidates like Deshaun Watson or Dillon Gabriel are vying for recognition. Any misstep could lead to a significant shift in that ranking—especially if Rodgers chooses to join the Steelers.

4. Will Howard (Pittsburgh Steelers)

Should Rodgers decide not to return, Will Howard may take the helm in Pittsburgh. He represents a hopeful gamble for the Steelers, with his sophomore season potentially determining the franchise's future. If he blossoms, Pittsburgh might have a young star to nurture. If not, we might see them in the draft hunt for a top quarterback, igniting a competitive tension in the division.

Strategic Implications for the Steelers

The stakes are high, and the question is not just about who throws the best spiral but also about who understands how to read defenses, make strategic plays, and motivate teammates. In this fiercely competitive division, the right quarterback can elevate a team from mediocrity to greatness, while the wrong choice can set them back for years.

For Steelers fans, the unknown surrounding Rodgers is both thrilling and nerve-wracking. Are we looking at a season of transitional growth, or can we expect a more veteran presence to lift the team back to prominence?

Looking Ahead

The question that lingers is simple yet profound: Can the Steelers afford to take a chance at a talent like Rodgers slipping through their fingers? Or will they trust in Howard's potential? As the clock ticks down to the season, the decisions made now could shape the AFC North landscape for years to come.

“The heart of sports lies not just in the scores, but in the stories we tell and the strategies we unravel.”

As we dive into the upcoming season, let's not only watch the plays unfold but also the narratives that shape these athletes' careers. Each game will be a testament to heart, grit, and the indomitable will to succeed. Are you ready for some football?