Steelers' Aaron Rodgers Discusses Mindset on NFL Retirement in Video After Texans Loss

Aaron Rodgers isn't ready to make any definitive statements about his future plans after the Pittsburgh Steelers' season ended with a 30-6 defeat against the Houston Texans in the AFC Wild Card game.

Speaking to reporters after Monday's loss, Rodgers said he won't "make any emotional decisions" when asked about the possibility of retirement.

Rodgers was full of praise for the city of Pittsburgh and Steelers fans after completing his first season with the organization.

Rodgers is set to become a free agent for the second consecutive offseason. He took an extended period of time last year before agreeing to a one-year deal with the Steelers in June.

Appearing on The Pat McAfee Show soon after signing with Pittsburgh, Rodgers said he is "pretty sure" the 2025 season would be his last in the NFL.

Rodgers has left the door open to returning in 2026. He said leading up to the regular-season finale that he could have "options" to keep playing "if I decide I still want to play."

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported on Jan. 4 that Pittsburgh is "open" to bringing Rodgers back next season, citing his "good chemistry" with head coach Mike Tomlin.

Of course, Tomlin's future could also be up in the air because there's speculation he could leave the Steelers for a television job. If the Steelers need to hire a new head coach, that person may not want to work with a 42-year-old quarterback.

If Monday was Rodgers' final game, it was rough for one of the best quarterbacks in NFL history. He finished 17-of-33 for 146 yards with no touchdowns, one interception and was sacked four times against a ferocious Houston defense.

Rodgers' overall performance this season was much better than that game. He threw for 3,322 yards, 24 touchdowns and a 65.7 completion percentage in 16 starts to help the Steelers win the AFC North for the first time since 2020.