Steelers Await Aaron Rodgers' Decision on 2026 Return
Pittsburgh Steelers fans might need to exercise patience once again as they await Aaron Rodgers' decision on whether he'll return for the 2026 season. Last year, the four-time NFL MVP kept the team in suspense until June 5, and this year might follow a similar pattern.
According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, the Steelers are still open to a reunion with Rodgers, but the timeline remains uncertain. "The Steelers are waiting to see if Rodgers wants to play again, and that could take months," Fowler shared on ESPN's Get Up.
Adding to the conversation, Adam Schefter noted on The Pat McAfee Show that the Steelers have set a firmer deadline this time, giving Rodgers about a month to make up his mind. "During exit meetings, the overwhelming sentiment among players was a desire to have Rodgers back. The respect and admiration for him were clear," Schefter explained.
Interestingly, the Steelers have brought in Mike McCarthy as their new head coach. While McCarthy wasn't hired specifically to lure Rodgers back, his presence could positively influence the situation. Rodgers' decision will ultimately dictate the team's direction, but it's clear the Steelers are eager to welcome him back.
In his debut season with the Steelers in 2025, Rodgers showed he still has plenty left in the tank, completing 327 of 498 passes for 3,322 yards, with 24 touchdowns and seven interceptions.
Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reported that Rodgers has been in frequent contact with McCarthy, and he's also spoken with wide receiver DK Metcalf, who is keen on Rodgers' return at age 42.
As the clock ticks towards free agency in mid-March, the hope is that Rodgers will make his decision sooner rather than later. While nothing is set in stone, a return to Pittsburgh wouldn't be surprising, and the Steelers are certainly ready to embrace him if he chooses to stay.