Aaron Rodgers Rumors Reveal Steelers' Stance on Potential 2026 Return Ahead of NFL Playoffs

The Pittsburgh Steelers reportedly have interest in re-signing quarterback Aaron Rodgers for next season if the future Hall of Famer wants to continue playing.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported that the Steelers have "really enjoyed the experience" of having Rodgers in the fold, and they "would be more than open" to Rodgers sticking around in 2026, while noting that Rodgers is also "now open to returning for another season":

The 42-year-old Rodgers led the Steelers to a 10-7 record and an AFC North title this season, and they will host the Houston Texans in an AFC Wild Card Round playoff game on Monday night.

A 10-time Pro Bowler, four-time NFL MVP, one-time Super Bowl champion and one-time Super Bowl MVP during his 18 seasons with the Green Bay Packers, Rodgers played for the New York Jets in 2023 and 2024.

Rodgers tore his Achilles in the first game of the 2023 season, though, and while he returned to start all 17 games for the Jets in 2024, they finished just 5-12.

The Jets opted to part ways with Rodgers after the 2024 season as a result, and after weighing his options and considering retirement, Rodgers signed with the Steelers in June.

It turned out to be a great move for both Rodgers and the Steelers, as he started 16 of the team's 17 regular-season games, going 10-6, while completing 65.7 percent of his passes for 3,322 yards, 24 touchdowns and seven interceptions.

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While the production was a far cry from what Rodgers typically did in Green Bay, the Steelers' quarterback play was more consistent with Rodgers than it was in 2024 with Russell Wilson and Justin Fields.

Rodgers led the Steelers to their first division title since 2020 when Ben Roethlisberger was still the quarterback, and they have a chance to win their first playoff game since 2016.

As noted by Rapoport, Rodgers is at least considering returning for a 22nd NFL season in 2026, although he has yet to make a final decision.

The Steelers make the most sense for Rodgers as a landing spot if he does come back in 2026, but Rapoport pointed out that the Steelers would like an answer "sooner rather than later," so they can address the quarterback position via free agency, trade or the draft should Rodgers choose to retire.