Aaron Rodgers’ 2025 season in Pittsburgh was nothing short of a statement. After two rocky years with the New York Jets, the four-time MVP reminded everyone why he's still one of the most respected quarterbacks in the league.
In what turned out to be Mike Tomlin’s final year at the helm, Rodgers led the Steelers back to the playoffs, throwing for 3,322 yards, 24 touchdowns, and just seven interceptions. Not bad for a guy in his 21st season.
Now, as the Steelers turn the page to a new era, Rodgers’ future with the franchise is suddenly uncertain-and not just because of age or contract logistics.
Pittsburgh made a bold move by hiring Mike McCarthy, Rodgers’ former head coach in Green Bay, to take over for Tomlin. The reunion storyline might sound intriguing on the surface, but there’s some history here that complicates things.
Specifically, McCarthy’s decision years ago to let quarterbacks coach Alex Van Pelt walk didn’t sit well with Rodgers. That move reportedly strained Rodgers’ relationship with the coaching staff, especially with Frank Cignetti Jr., who stepped into a larger role following Van Pelt’s departure.
According to reports, Rodgers was so unhappy with the change at the time that he wouldn’t even speak directly to Cignetti Jr., relying instead on backup QB Tim Boyle to relay messages. That’s not your everyday player-coach dynamic, and now, with Cignetti Jr. joining McCarthy’s staff in Pittsburgh, the stage is set for a potentially awkward reunion-assuming Rodgers decides to return at all.
Inside the Steelers locker room, though, there’s no ambiguity. Players want Rodgers back.
Multiple members of the team reportedly expressed that sentiment during their exit interviews, praising his leadership and the steadying presence he brought to the huddle. His experience, poise, and command of the offense were clear assets, especially for a team that had been searching for consistency at quarterback.
But the decision isn’t just about locker room chemistry. Rodgers has previously hinted that 2025 might be his final ride, and he hasn’t walked that back. If he does want to return for a 22nd season, the front office will need to work out a new deal-no small task given the cap implications and long-term planning involved.
Meanwhile, McCarthy is getting to work on assembling his staff and shaping the roster for 2026. It’s a critical offseason for Pittsburgh.
With the right moves in free agency and a strong draft, the Steelers could be right back in the Super Bowl conversation. But the quarterback question looms large.
If Rodgers returns, Pittsburgh gets a proven leader who still has gas in the tank. If he walks, the McCarthy era begins with a major void under center-and a whole lot of questions about what’s next.