The Pittsburgh Steelers may see Aaron Rodgers back on their roster for the 2026 NFL season as the quarterback’s future remains unresolved. After recently hiring former Green Bay Packers coach Mike McCarthy, Pittsburgh faces an uncertain quarterback situation, with Rodgers still undecided about continuing his career in Steel City. Rodgers’ potential return is gaining traction amid discussions with McCarthy, who played a significant role in Rodgers’ previous success in Green Bay.
NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero indicated on February 8 that Rodgers is leaning toward another season with the Steelers.
“Rodgers has not yet informed the Steelers whether he’ll return for a 22nd NFL season, but my understanding is the odds are increasing,”
Pelissero reported on NFL Network.
“I’m told Rodgers has spoken several times with new Steelers coach Mike McCarthy, who, of course, helped Rodgers develop into a four-time MVP and Super Bowl winner in Green Bay.”
Performance and Support from Teammates Fuel Return Speculation
Following two disappointing seasons with the New York Jets, Rodgers delivered a strong performance in 2025, completing 65% of his passes and throwing for over 3,300 yards, 24 touchdowns, and only seven interceptions. At 41 years old, this rebound season showcased his enduring skill and resilience.
His connection with key receiver DK Metcalf is also influencing the decision to stay.
“Rodgers also spoke with receiver DK Metcalf, who wants Rodgers back at age 42,”
Pelissero added.
“The plan is for Rodgers to take a little more time and everyone hopes comes to a decision prior to the start of free agency in mid-March. … If he’s going to come back, they need to work out a contract, but at this point, it would not be a surprise if Rodgers is back in Pittsburgh.”
Reconciliation Between Rodgers and McCarthy After Past Difficulties
The potential reunion between Rodgers and McCarthy is noteworthy given their complicated history in Green Bay. McCarthy was dismissed in 2018 after several successful seasons, and tensions between the quarterback and coach were widely reported. However, Rodgers has publicly expressed a softened perspective on their relationship in recent years.
“I think as time goes by, the gratitude for that time as you look back on the journey of your career goes up a little bit. … I’m thankful for those years and thankful maybe a little bit more now as the years go by.”
Ian O’Connor, author of a comprehensive Rodgers biography, discussed the relationship with Colin Cowherd in January, stating it is now
“better now than it ever was in Green Bay,”
according to SteelersDepot. Despite this, the duo have not worked together for nearly eight years, and it remains to be seen if they can overcome the stresses of the NFL once again if Rodgers returns.
Steelers Face Limited Quarterback Options Ahead of 2026 Draft
The Steelers’ quarterback depth chart is thin, with Mason Rudolph representing the only serious alternative to Rodgers. With the 21st overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, Pittsburgh’s ability to draft a franchise quarterback this season appears unlikely. This reality increases the importance of Rodgers’ decision, as his return could offer stability and veteran leadership during what may be his final NFL campaign.
If Rodgers opts to come back, it could provide the Steelers with a valuable bridge while they search for long-term solutions at the position. The team and fanbase will watch closely as Rodgers takes more time to decide in the coming weeks before free agency begins.
The "odds are increasing" that Aaron Rodgers returns to the Steelers next season, per @TomPelissero.
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