Aaron Rodgers' future in the NFL is once again the talk of the offseason. The seasoned quarterback, who recently wrapped up the 2025 season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, is on the brink of free agency. With Mike McCarthy now at the helm as the Steelers' head coach, rumors are swirling about the possibility of Rodgers returning to Pittsburgh for another run.
Damien Woody, a former NFL guard with two Super Bowl rings from his time with the New England Patriots, weighed in on the situation during ESPN's "First Take." Woody expressed doubts about Rodgers' potential impact on the Steelers' success.
He noted, "I don’t think it would be a mistake, I just don’t know the type of effect that Aaron Rodgers would have as far as winning. Remember, Steelers owner Art Rooney II has made it clear that rebuilding isn't in their vocabulary.
The goal is to compete and contend every year."
With limited veteran quarterback options available, Woody acknowledged that Rodgers might be the Steelers' best bet if they aim to stay competitive. "If the Pittsburgh Steelers want to contend, who else are they gonna turn to besides Aaron Rodgers right now?"
he added. "Of all the available options, this would probably be the best one for them."
Rodgers led the Steelers to an AFC North title last season, though their playoff journey was cut short by a tough 30-6 loss to the Houston Texans in the wild-card round. It's worth remembering that Rodgers and McCarthy have a history of success, having won a Super Bowl together with the Green Bay Packers in 2011.
As for Rodgers' next move, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that a decision could come by mid-March. Should Rodgers choose to hang up his cleats, it would conclude a storied career that began when he was drafted by the Packers in 2005. Over 18 years in Green Bay, Rodgers collected four MVP awards before his stints with the New York Jets and the Steelers.
The clock is ticking, and all eyes are on Rodgers as he weighs his options for the 2026 season. Whether he returns or retires, his decision will undoubtedly shape the landscape of the league.