Steelers players reportedly want Aaron Rodgers to return to team in 2026
- - Steelers players reportedly want Aaron Rodgers to return to team in 2026
Chris CwikJanuary 18, 2026 at 9:44 PM
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Aaron Rodgers' Pittsburgh Steelers era may have come to an end, but his teammates hope there's still a chance at a return. Steelers players reportedly spoke highly of Rodgers during exit interviews and want the veteran to return to the team for another year in 2026, per ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Rodgers, 42, was praised by nearly every player, per Schefter, with "most, if not all," expressing they would like to have Rodgers back for one more season.
Almost all Steelers players praised Rodgers during their exit interviews, and most, if not all, of them want the veteran quarterback to return in 2026. His support among players was universal, and those around the organization pointed out how beloved and respected Rodgers was there.
In his first year with the Steelers, Rodgers threw for 3,322 yards, 24 touchdowns and seven interceptions while leading the team to a 10-7 record. Following the Steelers' 30-6 loss to the Houston Texans in the wild-card round, Rodgers did not commit to playing next season, instead saying he wanted to take his time before making a decision.
If Rodgers does decide to play, however, the Steelers may not be an option for the veteran. Former Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin — who surprisingly stepped down following the team's wild-card loss — reportedly played a big role in Rodgers coming to the franchise last offseason. With Tomlin now gone, Rodgers could opt to play for another club in 2026. Rodgers was not happy some questioned Tomlin's job security following the team's wild-card loss. The fact that Tomlin felt the need to step away may have been the final straw for the veteran quarterback.
Despite his age, Rodgers still has some ability left in his arm. While he's no longer producing near his peak, he can still post a solid touchdown-to-interception ratio and lead a team to wins.
But the market for a 42-year-old quarterback probably won't be that robust, especially if Rodgers limits his options to possible contenders. The Steelers could still fit that criteria next season. The Minnesota Vikings could also be an intriguing option after J.J. McCarthy's middling first season as a starter. The Miami Dolphins, Arizona Cardinals and maybe the Atlanta Falcons could be interesting options should they decide to move on from their current starters.
Of those options, Rodgers has the most familiarity with the Steelers. But Tomlin's exit could prove to be the deciding factor in Rodgers' decision, which could lead to the veteran joining yet another franchise as he tries to win one more championship.
Source: “AOL Sports”
