The Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly interested in having Aaron Rodgers continue playing for them in the 2026 NFL season. After spending the 2025 campaign with Pittsburgh, the 42-year-old quarterback will assess his future with the team, which is now under the leadership of former Green Bay Packers head coach Mike McCarthy.
According to Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio, the Steelers are optimistic that Rodgers will decide against retirement and play his 22nd NFL season with them.
“It’s not a ploy to make Rodgers think they want him back while hoping he doesn’t return,”
Florio said.
“They want him to return.”
Steelers Taking Time, Not Pressuring Rodgers
Florio emphasized that the Steelers are not rushing Rodgers to make a decision, noting that Rodgers did not officially sign with the team until June of the previous year. This patient approach allows time for a thoughtful choice rather than a hurried commitment.
Should Rodgers choose to retire, this would open a window for second-year quarterback Will Howard to compete for the starting role. The Steelers are placing importance on Howard’s development, as he gains opportunities without Rodgers participating in offseason activities.
“While they don’t anticipate that the situation will take quite as long as it did last year to resolve itself, they’re content to focus on developing second-year quarterback Will Howard,”
Florio wrote.
“With Rodgers not there for the offseason program, Howard has a chance to become QB1 over Mason Rudolph.”
Momentum Builds Around Rodgers’ Possible Return
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero has reported growing odds favoring Rodgers’ return to the Steelers. Since taking the head coach position, McCarthy has maintained frequent communication with Rodgers, further signaling a strong working relationship. Meanwhile, star wide receiver DK Metcalf has openly expressed his desire to see Rodgers back under center.
The Steelers are reportedly eager for Rodgers to finalize his decision before the NFL free agency period begins next month. Sources close to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler indicate that Rodgers feels mentally stronger after his season in Pittsburgh compared to his two years with the New York Jets.
“He greatly valued his experience in Pittsburgh, and teammates raved about him, both publicly and in exit meetings with the team,”
Fowler wrote.
“The Steelers have been open to a Rodgers return since early in the season, and I don’t sense that has changed.”
Rodgers’ Impact and the Steelers’ Outlook
The arrival of Aaron Rodgers did not dramatically alter the Steelers’ record, as they finished 10-7 and experienced their third consecutive first-round playoff loss. However, the veteran Hall of Famer remains a more favorable short-term option compared to other current quarterback alternatives on the roster.
With uncertainty surrounding Aaron Rodgers Steelers return, Pittsburgh’s strategy preserves flexibility while preparing for multiple outcomes. The offseason will reveal whether Rodgers extends his career with the Steelers or paves the way for emerging talents like Will Howard to take the lead position.
The "odds are increasing" that Aaron Rodgers returns to the Steelers next season, per @TomPelissero.
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