Is Aaron Rodgers Retiring? Steelers Coaching Moves Hint at His NFL Future
This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.
With the Pittsburgh Steelers entering the 2026 offseason in flux, featuring a new head coach and a pivotal quarterback decision looming, fans and analysts alike are asking: Is Aaron Rodgers retiring? The four-time NFL MVP is coming off a one-year contract with the Steelers and now must decide whether to continue his Hall of Fame-caliber career or step away from the game.
Aaron Rodgers’ 2025 Season and Free Agency
Aaron Rodgers, now 42, spent the 2025 NFL season with the Pittsburgh Steelers after signing a one-year $19.5 million deal. He led Pittsburgh to an AFC North title, passing for over 3,300 yards and 24 touchdowns, but the Steelers were eliminated in the Wild Card round.
#NFL QB Turnover Rates 2025
Caleb Williams finishes the 2025 season with the lowest turnover rate among NFL QBs (min. 250 plays).
1. Caleb Williams
2. Justin Fields
3. Aaron Rodgers
4. Jaxson Dart
5. Jalen Hurts pic.twitter.com/nS8HBcKYdk— SFdata9ers🏈📊 (@sfdata9ers) January 5, 2026
That season might have been Rodgers’ last, according to statements he made before the year began. In mid-2025, Rodgers suggested on The Pat McAfee Show that he was “pretty sure” it would be his final NFL season.
Steelers Coaching Shakeup and Rodgers’ Status
One of the biggest recent developments for the Steelers is the departure of long-time head coach Mike Tomlin. Secondly, the hiring of Mike McCarthy, his former Super Bowl-winning coach, as the new head coach for 2026. McCarthy famously coached Rodgers during his long tenure with the Green Bay Packers, including their Super Bowl XLV championship together.
Reporter: “In your best-case scenario, do you want Aaron Rodgers back as your quarterback next year?”
Mike McCarthy: “Definitely. I mean, I don’t see why you wouldn’t… I watched most of the Pittsburgh games on TV, and I thought he was a great asset for the team.” 🏈🎙️ #NFL pic.twitter.com/mTRMntnHHI
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) January 27, 2026
At McCarthy’s introductory press conference, he publicly expressed a desire to have Rodgers back in Pittsburgh next season. “Definitely … doesn’t see why you wouldn’t,” said McCarthy.
Conclusion
Aaron Rodgers’ retirement remains uncertain as of early 2026. While he suggested the 2025 NFL season might be his final, the Steelers’ hiring of McCarthy has reopened the possibility of his return. Both Rodgers and the Steelers have left the door open for another season together. However, the decision lies with Rodgers and is expected soon this offseason.
