The starting quarterback job is a big question for the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2026. However, multiple signs indicate that Aaron Rodgers will return for another season after a successful first year with the franchise.
Rodgers, who is 42 years old, was initially viewed as a short-term solution when the Steelers signed him in June. The expectation was that he would serve as a bridge until the team finds its long-term quarterback in the draft.
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Rodgers instead delivered immediate results, leading Pittsburgh to an AFC North title. He restored stability at the position after years of inconsistency since Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement.
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NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport shared on Sunday that Rodgers’ stance on retirement has changed as the season progressed.
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“Rodgers actually began the season openly stating that he believed this would be his last year,” Rapoport said, via “NFL GameDay Morning.”
“Except it’s gone so well in Pittsburgh. He showed enough offensively, he’s enjoyed his time in the locker room (so much) that he’s now open to returning for another season. And my understanding is the Steelers would welcome this.”
Team sources suggested that the Steelers are interested in bringing Rodgers back. His production, leadership and consistency have been an upgrade over recent starters, including Kenny Pickett and Russell Wilson.
However, no final decision has been made. Rapoport noted that Rodgers’ health and the outcome of Pittsburgh’s playoff run will be key factors.
“Lot of time to go, we’ll see what ends up happening on Monday, see how Rodgers feels after the season,” Rapoport said. “The hope would be an answer sooner rather than later, but certainly both sides, it seems, would be open to a reunion.”
Also Read: “Been there, done that guy”: Mike Tomlin opens up on how Aaron Rodgers taking over affects Steelers
Former Packers guard praises Aaron Rodgers’ leadership
Former Green Bay guard Cameron Stephenson praised Aaron Rodgers, recalling his time with the Packers. He said on Sunday that he misses Rodgers not just for his play, but for his leadership.
Adams recalled the quarterback buying Christmas gifts for all the linemen.
“Aaron was awesome,” Stephenson said, via Steelers Takeaways. “He took care of us. For Christmas, he bought the entire number two linemen MacBooks. Brett Favre didn’t get us anything! We thought that was funny.”
Stephenson was with Breen Bay for only a short time but Rodgers left an good impression on him.
Edited by Victor Ramon Galvez
