The Pittsburgh Steelers’ quarterback situation just got a whole lot more interesting - and all eyes are on Aaron Rodgers.
After a 2025 season that saw Rodgers guide the Steelers to an AFC North title before falling in the wild-card round, the future Hall of Famer hasn’t yet committed to returning for another run in 2026. But with Mike McCarthy stepping in as the Steelers’ new head coach, the door to a Rodgers comeback might be more open than ever.
Let’s unpack what we know - and why this potential reunion is more than just offseason chatter.
Rodgers + McCarthy: A Familiar Formula
The hiring of Mike McCarthy is more than just a coaching change - it’s a reunion with deep roots. McCarthy and Rodgers spent over a decade together in Green Bay, a run that included a Super Bowl title and some of the most prolific offensive seasons in Packers history.
Their relationship had its ups and downs, sure, but the mutual respect has always been there. And now, with McCarthy at the helm in Pittsburgh, that history suddenly matters a lot more.
In his introductory press conference, McCarthy didn’t play coy. He made it clear he’d love to have Rodgers back under center. That kind of public endorsement carries weight - especially when it comes from a coach who knows exactly how to get the best out of Rodgers.
The Steelers Are Listening
Internally, there’s no indication the Steelers are closing the book on Rodgers just yet. Reports suggest the front office is “open” to a return, and players have spoken positively about his impact on the team last season. That’s not just lip service - it’s a sign that the locker room and leadership believe Rodgers still has something left in the tank.
Let’s not forget: even at this stage of his career, Rodgers helped Pittsburgh win a tough AFC North division. That doesn’t happen by accident. His presence stabilized the offense, brought veteran leadership, and gave the Steelers a legitimate shot in the postseason - even if it ended earlier than they hoped.
The Uncertainty Factor
Still, it’s far from a done deal. Rodgers hasn’t made any public commitment to returning in 2026, and his comments during the 2025 season hinted at the possibility of retirement. Add in the departure of longtime head coach Mike Tomlin - a major figure in the organization - and it’s clear there are variables in play.
The Steelers, for their part, are being smart. They’re not rushing Rodgers into a decision, and they’re not betting the entire offseason on his return. But they’re also not shutting the door.
What Comes Next?
Here’s the reality: a Rodgers-McCarthy reunion in Pittsburgh makes football sense. The chemistry is there, the system fit is there, and the Steelers are a team built to win now - not rebuild. If Rodgers wants one more shot at a deep playoff run, this might be the best setup he could ask for.
But for now, it’s a waiting game. Rodgers holds the cards, and the Steelers are keeping the seat warm. Whether or not he decides to sit back down in it - that’s the next big storyline to watch as the 2026 offseason unfolds.