Aaron Rodgers Steelers news: a person familiar with the quarterback’s plans said the 42-year-old intends to return for the 2026 season, his 22nd in the NFL, and is expected to play for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Aaron Rodgers Steelers reunion and recent developments
Two people familiar with Rodgers’ thinking, who were not authorized to speak publicly, said the veteran has told confidants he wants to keep playing and would like to remain in Pittsburgh for 2026.
The Steelers said Rodgers signed a one-year deal with the team in 2025, and according to team statistics he passed for more than 3,000 yards and threw 20 touchdowns that season, helping Pittsburgh win the AFC North.
Rodgers’ return plans were clouded by the unexpected resignation of head coach Mike Tomlin, a move that raised questions about the club’s near-term direction, two reporters who cover the team, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said.
Coaching change, past relationship with McCarthy and what it means for Rodgers
The Steelers announced that Mike McCarthy will replace Tomlin, a hire that caught the attention of Rodgers because McCarthy was his head coach with the Green Bay Packers when they won Super Bowl XLV following the 2010 season.
Rodgers and McCarthy’s familiarity is a factor in the quarterback’s willingness to stay, people close to Rodgers said, and it has tempered some concerns about the upheaval in Pittsburgh.
Contract talks and timeline
Two people familiar with the contract discussions said the Steelers recently offered Rodgers a right of first refusal that would ensure his 2025 compensation would be at least $15 million (originally 117,520,000 HKD / reference rate 1 HKD = 0.1277 USD) and would give the team the chance to match any offer from another club.
Those people said Rodgers is not expected to accept what they described as a floor price, and that a scheduled meeting this weekend will be an important opportunity for both sides to negotiate before training camp.
People close to the situation said the meeting will focus on length, guarantees, and how Rodgers would fit into McCarthy’s offense should he sign an extension and play in 2026.
Outlook for the Steelers and fan reaction
If Rodgers signs to stay, the quarterback would once again don the black and gold and push for a deep postseason run with McCarthy calling plays, sources said.
Steelers fans, and observers who follow the team closely, are expected to wait for the outcome of the weekend talks before drawing conclusions about the 2026 season.
For now, Aaron Rodgers Steelers discussions remain active, and final contract terms could be announced after the meeting and before the start of training camp.
