Aaron Rodgers Steelers timeline: Latest news, updates on 2026 decision

Another offseason, another round of speculation about Aaron Rodgers’ NFL future. Like his predecessor (Brett Favre) in Green Bay two decades earlier, the tail end of Rodgers’ career has been defined, at least in part, by uncertainty — offseasons that, so far, have ended with him returning for one more year in what will ultimately be a Hall of Fame career.
Rodgers, 42, is a free agent after spending the 2025 season in Pittsburgh on a one-year deal. In his first year with the Steelers, he played well enough to help Pittsburgh win 10 games and capture its first division title since 2020. His performance was even more impressive considering he played the final six games with multiple fractures in his left wrist. The Steelers went 4-2 in those games, with the second loss a season-ending defeat to the Texans in the AFC wild-card round — extending Pittsburgh’s playoff win drought to nine seasons.
Immediately after the season ended, Rodgers expressed appreciation for the Steelers while confirming he would once again take time during the offseason before deciding on 2026. Two months later, he still appears to be weighing his options.
While no decision has been made, here’s a rundown of what has transpired between Rodgers and the Steelers this offseason.
Jan. 24: Steelers hire Rodgers’ former coach to replace Mike Tomlin
After Mike Tomlin stepped down as Steelers coach, it initially appeared Rodgers’ time in Pittsburgh was over. Steelers president Art Rooney II all but said as much during his first press conference following Tomlin’s departure.
That quickly changed when the Steelers hired Mike McCarthy, Rodgers’ longtime coach in Green Bay. McCarthy and Rodgers spent 13 seasons together, including 11 with Rodgers as the starter. Their success included a Super Bowl win (at Pittsburgh’s expense), a 15-1 season, and three NFC title game appearances.
While Rooney said the hire wasn’t made to facilitate a reunion, he did leave the door open for Rodgers to return for another season.