Ben Roethlisberger isn’t closing the door on Aaron Rodgers. But if Rodgers closes it on Pittsburgh and chooses retirement over a 22nd NFL season, Roethlisberger named the veteran quarterback the Steelers should pursue. It’s one who just became available. Appearing on the Deebo & Joe podcast Tuesday, Roethlisberger made the case to bring back Josh Dobbs.
“Here’s something I would consider that happened recently,” Roethlisberger told James Harrison and Joe Haden. “Josh Dobbs just got released by New England. I would strongly, if Aaron doesn’t come back, I’d love to bring a veteran guy in like Dobbs. Who has been here. Obviously, new system, not the same coaching staff. Bringing a veteran guy in.”
Dobbs was just released by the New England Patriots and will look to latch on elsewhere. Roethlisberger thinks a third act in Pittsburgh makes sense. The Steelers drafted Dobbs in 2017. He largely spent his time in Pittsburgh on the bench as Roethlisberger’s backup.
Pittsburgh traded Dobbs to the Jacksonville Jaguars shortly after the 2019 season began. One week later, Roethlisberger went down with a season-ending elbow injury that left the Steelers scrambling the rest of the season. Mason Rudolph and Duck Hodges rotated as the team’s starter with a struggling offense preventing a playoff appearance.
The Steelers brought Dobbs back in 2020. Again, most of his time was spent on the bench. His career didn’t truly pick up until 2023. Starting 12 games for the Tennessee Titans, his numbers weren’t prolific, but Dobbs’ football IQ and ability to quickly digest a playbook proved valuable. Thrust into the starting role in Tennessee, Arizona and Minnesota, Dobbs held his own.
Dobbs has made just one start since 2024 and hardly played in 2025 with the Patriots. Last season, he threw just 10 passes across four appearances.
It’s no surprise to hear Roethlisberger vouch for Dobbs. The two were close friends, something especially notable knowing Roethlisberger didn’t always have the friendliest relationships with backup quarterbacks. Dobbs later admitted having trouble learning structure behind Roethlisberger, but Mike McCarthy’s offense should provide plenty of that now.
If Rodgers doesn’t return, Dobbs wouldn’t be a terrible idea, but his pedigree is on a similar level as Mason Rudolph. Capable backups who don’t reach even bridge quarterback level. Pittsburgh may look for someone like Kirk Cousins, who remains a free agent and is weighing his options.