The 2025 NFL season brought a surprising twist for four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers, who joined the Pittsburgh Steelers on a one-year deal. Rodgers led the Steelers to an AFC North title and a playoff berth, but now the offseason buzz centers on whether he’ll return for the 2026 season. Recent insider reports suggest that a reunion with the Steelers is unlikely, leaving the team at a pivotal moment as they contemplate a potential rebuild under new leadership.
Rodgers inked a one-year, $13.65 million contract with Pittsburgh in June 2025, aiming to finish his storied career on his own terms. At 42, he hinted that the season might be his swan song.
On the field, Rodgers delivered solid numbers, throwing for 3,322 yards, 24 touchdowns, and seven interceptions, with a completion rate of 65.7%. Despite their AFC North victory, the Steelers’ journey ended with a wild-card loss to the Houston Texans, a disappointing finish for fans hoping Rodgers’ playoff experience would lead to greater success.
Post-season, there was some optimism about Rodgers staying, especially after the Steelers hired Mike McCarthy, his former coach from Green Bay. However, that hope has dimmed.
According to CBS Sports’ Aditi Kinkhabwala, those close to Rodgers believe his chances of returning are slim. She mentioned on 93.7 The Fan that most insiders feel Rodgers is more likely to retire than to sign another NFL contract.
Rodgers’ uncertainty puts the Steelers in a challenging position as free agency and the draft approach. With the new league year starting on March 11, 2026, Pittsburgh needs clarity on their quarterback situation to effectively plan their offseason strategy. Should Rodgers decide to retire or move on, the Steelers will face 2026 with a relatively inexperienced quarterback lineup.
As the offseason progresses, skepticism about Rodgers’ return grows. Despite initial hopes and his connection to Coach McCarthy, multiple reports indicate that a reunion with the Steelers is not in the cards for 2026.