Steelers Fans Brace for Possibility of Rodgers Retirement

CBS Reporter Kinkhabwala says chance of Rodgers' return is 'minuscule'

Apr. 13, 2026 at 4:46am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a football player in motion, with sharp, overlapping planes of color and form that convey a sense of uncertainty and transition.The uncertain future of quarterback Aaron Rodgers casts a shadow over the Pittsburgh Steelers' plans for the 2026 season.Today in Pittsburgh

Despite widespread speculation about Aaron Rodgers returning to the Pittsburgh Steelers, CBS Sports reporter Aditi Kinkhabwala says the chances of that happening are 'minuscule.' Kinkhabwala has spoken to people close to Rodgers, who believe the future Hall of Famer is more likely to retire than make a comeback, even with the arrival of his former coach Mike McCarthy as the new Steelers head coach.

Why it matters

Rodgers' future has been a major storyline this offseason, with many expecting him to reunite with McCarthy in Pittsburgh. However, Kinkhabwala's reporting suggests the Steelers may need to prepare for life after Rodgers, which could significantly impact their plans for the 2026 season and beyond.

The details

Kinkhabwala says those close to Rodgers feel his retirement is more probable than a comeback, despite the quarterback hinting at having 'options' for 2026. The departure of longtime Steelers coach Mike Tomlin and the arrival of Rodgers' former coach Mike McCarthy had fueled speculation of a Rodgers return, but Kinkhabwala believes the Steelers are quietly preparing for a Rodgers-less future.

  • In 2025, Rodgers initially planned to make the season his last.
  • Later in 2025, Rodgers hinted at having 'options' for the 2026 season.
  • In 2026, Mike McCarthy was hired as the new Steelers head coach.

The players

Aaron Rodgers

Veteran NFL quarterback who has been the subject of speculation about his future, including a potential return to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Aditi Kinkhabwala

CBS Sports reporter who has spoken to people close to Rodgers and believes the chances of him returning to the Steelers are 'minuscule.'

Mike Tomlin

Former longtime head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Mike McCarthy

New head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who previously coached Rodgers with the Green Bay Packers.

Will Howard

Quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, who has been praised by McCarthy as the team prepares for the possibility of Rodgers not returning.

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What they’re saying

“The chance that he comes back to play is minuscule.”

— Aditi Kinkhabwala, CBS Sports reporter

“Far more likely that he is done.”

— Aditi Kinkhabwala, CBS Sports reporter

What’s next

The Steelers' plans for the 2026 season will become clearer as the team navigates free agency and the NFL Draft in the coming months, with the future of Aaron Rodgers still uncertain.

The takeaway

This story highlights the unpredictability of NFL player retirements and the need for teams to have contingency plans, even for star players. The Steelers may need to prepare for life after Rodgers, which could significantly impact their roster and strategy for the 2026 season.