Aaron Rodgers Declares 2026 Season as His NFL Farewell

Aaron Rodgers has announced that the 2026 NFL season will be the concluding segment of his illustrious football journey. The seasoned quarterback revealed on Wednesday that he intends to retire following his 22nd season in the NFL with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

“This is it,” Rodgers commented during a discussion after the Steelers’ second day of voluntary organized team activities.

At 42, the quarterback did not elaborate on his retirement decision but shared that there was a time earlier this year when he believed his career was finished. He noted that he genuinely considered retiring after the Steelers’ significant playoff defeat to the Houston Texans in January and the resignation of longtime head coach Mike Tomlin.

However, the hiring of Mike McCarthy as the new head coach shifted his perspective. Rodgers, who thrived under McCarthy for 13 seasons with the Green Bay Packers, admitted he had urged Steelers general manager Omar Khan to reach out to McCarthy regarding the position.

Together, they celebrated a Super Bowl victory in Green Bay, creating one of the NFL's most successful duos. Their strong bond played a vital role in Rodgers opting for one final season.

The seasoned quarterback noted that maintaining his health and the chance to conclude his career alongside familiar teammates made his decision smoother. He described reuniting with McCarthy and several former Packers assistants in Pittsburgh as “surreal.”

According to Rodgers, entering the Steelers’ meeting area again with McCarthy felt reminiscent of 2006 when he was a young backup to Brett Favre in Green Bay.

Despite his age, Rodgers showed commendable performance last season, throwing 24 touchdown passes and only seven interceptions while leading Pittsburgh to an AFC North title. However, injuries and the Steelers’ playoff exit against Houston highlighted the physical trials of playing at 42.

McCarthy lauded Rodgers during training sessions, asserting that the veteran can still perform at the highest level. Besides leading the team, Rodgers is expected to mentor emerging quarterbacks Drew Allar and Will Howard as Pittsburgh looks ahead post-retirement.

Rodgers expressed enthusiasm about the team’s offseason improvements, which include key additions like wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr., running back Rico Dowdle, and rookie receiver Germie Bernard. He also conveyed confidence in the Steelers’ offensive line and defense, anchored by stars Cam Heyward and TJ Watt.

The future Hall of Fame quarterback emphasized his determination to relish the final season of his career, striving for success alongside Pittsburgh one last time.

“I am excited about these guys,” Rodgers stated. “I’m excited about the team.”