Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

Steelers Receive Aaron Rodgers Prediction Amid Retirement Speculation

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jaron Spor | Last updated Mar 14, 2026 11:40 AM ET

One of the biggest offseason storylines is about four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers. He has just completed his 21st season in the NFL and his first season with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

He threw for 3,322 yards, completing 24 touchdowns and seven interceptions, with a completion rate of 65.7%. He led the team to the postseason; however, they lost 30-6 to the Houston Texans. After the season, the team decided to part ways with longtime head coach Mike Tomlin and hired Mike McCarthy, who had previously been Rodgers' head coach with the Green Bay Packers.

McCarthy spent 13 seasons with the Packers, where he helped guide quarterback Aaron Rodgers to his only Super Bowl victory in 2010. However, McCarthy was dismissed after Week 13 of the 2018 season. Now, both McCarthy and the Steelers organization are awaiting Aaron Rodgers' decision regarding his future in the NFL. According to Matt Johnson from Yahoo Sports, he believes that Rodgers will return for his 22nd season.

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) reacts in the second quarter.Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

"Everything the Pittsburgh Steelers have said publicly, paired with reports about the front office’s thinking, points to one thing: Aaron Rodgers is coming back for the 2026 NFL season," Johnson wrote. "Even the Michael Pittman Jr. trade, acquiring a receiver who excels at creating quick separation and getting open early, signals a plan to help out the future Hall of Famer at quarterback. We don’t think Rodgers will sign until around June, but we firmly believe he’ll be the Steelers’ starting quarterback in 2026."

If Rodgers stays, it would provide the team with a veteran presence in the locker room and allow them another year to determine their future draft strategy. Alternatively, the team could consider selecting a high-upside player in the later rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft, giving that player the opportunity to learn from Rodgers.

As Johnson noted, the team acquired Pittman from the Colts, providing Rodgers with another offensive weapon. Over his six seasons, Pittman has recorded 5,254 yards and 25 touchdowns, including two seasons with over 1,000 receiving yards. Additionally, having someone like Rodgers, who is familiar with McCarthy's system, could significantly benefit the rest of the team as they pursue their seventh Super Bowl victory.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: