Aaron Rodgers might not be done just yet - and if he isn’t, the Minnesota Vikings could be back in the mix.
A year ago, Minnesota was floated as a possible destination for Rodgers before he ultimately chose Pittsburgh. The connection made sense then and still does now: Rodgers has a strong relationship with Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell, and the team’s quarterback situation remains unsettled heading into 2026.
Now, with Rodgers’ future once again up in the air, the Vikings are being mentioned as a potential landing spot - this time with even more reason to consider it.
Rodgers, who turns 43 later this year, is at a career crossroads. Retirement is very much on the table, especially after a turbulent season in Pittsburgh and the departure of longtime Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin. But if Rodgers wants one more run, Minnesota could offer a compelling opportunity.
Here’s why: The Vikings have a talented offensive core and a head coach Rodgers trusts. That’s not just lip service - O’Connell and Rodgers go back, and their mutual respect could be the foundation for a short-term partnership. Add in a strong receiving corps and a system that fits Rodgers' strengths, and it starts to look like a tailor-made situation for a veteran quarterback looking to go out on his terms.
There’s also the J.J. McCarthy factor.
The former first-round pick had a rough 2025 campaign, and while the Vikings haven’t closed the book on him, it’s clear he’s not quite ready to take over the reins. If Minnesota still believes in McCarthy’s long-term upside, bringing in Rodgers for a year could be the ideal bridge - a chance for McCarthy to learn behind one of the best to ever do it, without being thrown into the fire again.
That kind of setup benefits both sides. Rodgers gets a chance to compete with a playoff-caliber roster and potentially end his career on a high note. The Vikings get a proven leader under center while giving McCarthy more time to develop.
Of course, this all hinges on one key question: does Rodgers want to play in 2026? That answer remains unknown. But if he does, and if the Steelers are no longer a viable option post-Tomlin, Minnesota suddenly looks like a logical - and maybe even ideal - destination.
It’s too early to say if this reunion of sorts will happen. But the pieces are on the board. And if the Vikings believe Rodgers gives them the best shot to contend next season, don’t be surprised if they make a serious push.