Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers Likely to Return for Another NFL Season

Former Packers star may continue playing for Pittsburgh under new coach Mike McCarthy

Feb. 22, 2026 at 6:49pm

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Despite previous indications that the 2025 season would be his last, veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers is now more likely to return to the NFL and play for the Pittsburgh Steelers next year, according to a new report from NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero. Rodgers had briefly played for the New York Jets before joining the Steelers on a one-year deal, and the hiring of former Packers coach Mike McCarthy in Pittsburgh may have changed Rodgers' mind about retirement.

Why it matters

Rodgers' potential return would be a major boost for the Steelers, who are looking to build on their recent playoff appearance. The 42-year-old quarterback is still playing at a high level and his reunion with McCarthy could help the team contend in the AFC. However, Rodgers' future plans have been uncertain, so his decision will be closely watched by NFL fans.

The details

According to Pelissero, the "odds are rising" that Rodgers will come back for another season, and he believes it will be with the Steelers if Rodgers does decide to continue playing. Rodgers had previously indicated he expected the 2025 season to be his last, but the hiring of McCarthy in Pittsburgh may have changed his mind. Rodgers briefly played for the Jets before signing a one-year, $13.65 million deal with the Steelers last year, leading them to the playoffs under longtime head coach Mike Tomlin, who has since stepped down.

  • In June 2025, Rodgers said he expected the 2025 season to be his final one in the NFL.
  • The Steelers recently hired former Packers coach Mike McCarthy.

The players

Aaron Rodgers

A veteran NFL quarterback who has played for the Green Bay Packers and Pittsburgh Steelers, and is considering returning for another season.

Mike McCarthy

The new head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who previously coached Rodgers with the Packers and won a Super Bowl together.

Mike Tomlin

The former head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who recently stepped down from the role.

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What they’re saying

“The odds are rising that he comes back. I don't see it being any place else... if he's going to play, I believe it's going to be for the Pittsburgh Steelers.”

— Tom Pelissero, NFL Network insider

“Pretty sure this is it.”

— Aaron Rodgers

“When this is all done, it's Keyser Söze, you won't see me.”

— Aaron Rodgers

What’s next

Rodgers will need to officially announce whether he plans to return for another NFL season or retire.

The takeaway

Rodgers' potential return to the Steelers under new coach Mike McCarthy would be a major storyline in the NFL, as the veteran quarterback has hinted at retirement but now seems more likely to play on. His decision will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.