The Pittsburgh Steelers appear to be planning for the return of quarterback Aaron Rodgers for the 2026 season, according to team insider Mark Kaboly. Rodgers played in what many thought would be his final
game for the Steelers in their wildcard playoff loss to the Houston Texans.
At the conclusion of last season, head coach Mike Tomlin re-signed, and team president Art Rooney II suggested that Rodgers’ tenure in Pittsburgh may have come to an end, stating that “Aaron came to play for Mike.” With the hiring of new head coach Mike McCarthy, however, the team appears to be moving forward with the expectation that Rodgers will return.
“What I’ve heard a lot is they’re expecting him to come back,” Kaboly said on 93.7 The Fan. They are under the impression that he still wants to play.“
Unlike last year’s offseason, which extended Rodgers’ decision up to training camp, the Steelers have reportedly set a one-month timeline for his return. If Rodgers does not commit, the organization can proceed with offseason plans without waiting indefinitely.
Rodgers, who spent 13 seasons under McCarthy in Green Bay, won a Super Bowl and two MVP awards during his tenure there. Should he return, he would enter his 22nd NFL season and serve as a bridge for the franchise’s future, mentoring potential successors such as second-year quarterback Will Howard or a possible 2026 draft selection.
The Steelers appear to be squeezing every last bit of juice out of Rodgers as Father Time quickly approaches.
