The Pittsburgh Steelers face a pivotal moment in the 2026 offseason as they welcome Mike McCarthy as their new head coach following Mike Tomlin’s 19-year tenure. McCarthy’s hiring has raised expectations that quarterback Aaron Rodgers might return to the NFL for one more season with the Steelers. Rodgers, who remains undecided about continuing his career, is now reportedly leaning toward a comeback, especially with McCarthy’s involvement.
Recent Reports Indicate Growing Chances of Rodgers’ Return
According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, Rodgers has yet to inform the Steelers whether he will play a 22nd NFL season but the likelihood of his return is increasing. Pelissero shared,
“Rodgers has not yet informed the Steelers whether he will return for a 22nd NFL season,”
and added,
“But my understanding is the odds are increasing. I am told Rodgers has spoken several times with new Steelers coach Mike McCarthy who of course helped Rodgers develop into a four-time MVP.”
These conversations between Rodgers and McCarthy have become a focal point for those following the Steelers’ offseason.
Influences Beyond Coaching Conversations
Beyond McCarthy, Rodgers has also been in touch with wide receiver D.K. Metcalf, who expressed a strong desire for the 42-year-old quarterback to continue playing this fall. Pelissero remarked,
“The plan is for Rodgers to take a little bit more time,”
and added,
“And everyone hopes that [he] comes to a decision prior to the start of free agency in mid March.”
Such ongoing discussions highlight the careful consideration Rodgers is giving to his future.
Contract and Salary Cap Considerations
If Rodgers opts to return, he would need to negotiate a new contract with the Steelers. Thankfully for the team, Pittsburgh enters this offseason with $44.94 million in salary cap space, providing ample flexibility to accommodate Rodgers’ deal. Rodgers’ familiarity with McCarthy, having spent multiple seasons together with the Green Bay Packers where he earned four MVP awards, could ease contract negotiations and foster a productive reunion.
Implications for Steelers’ 2026 Season Outlook
The Steelers maintain that McCarthy’s hiring was not specifically designed to entice Rodgers back, emphasizing McCarthy’s own Pittsburgh roots. Nevertheless, the move appears to have influenced Rodgers’ deliberations on his NFL future. His final decision will mark a significant milestone for the Steelers in 2026, affecting their plans as the offseason progresses. Fans and analysts alike await the announcement, which will shape the team’s trajectory for the coming season.
The Insiders on @NFLGameDay with @TomPelissero, @MikeGarafolo, and @JudyBattista: Aaron Rodgers seriously considering returning to the #Steelers; Lamar Jackson and #Ravens set to work out an extension; #Rams QB Matthew Stafford could get a raise; HOF eyes major voting changes. pic.twitter.com/VHhcGwV8m4
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 8, 2026
