The Pittsburgh Steelers will welcome back quarterback Aaron Rodgers if he decides to play next season, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. In June, Rodgers signed a one-year, $13.65 million contract with the Steelers.
Going into the season, Rodgers was expected to retire after the season ended. After leading the Steelers to a 10-7 record and an AFC North Championship, the door has reportedly opened for the 42-year-old quarterback to play another season. While Rodgers is undecided on his future, the Steelers would love to bring him back.
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“He is playing well enough, from my understanding, the Steelers have really enjoyed the experience and would be more than open to it,” Rapoport said. “They hope to get an answer sooner rather than later, like they did last offseason.”
On December 31, Rodgers told reporters that he would evaluate his options when the season ends.
“I’m 42, and I’m on a 1-year deal. You know what the situation is. Whenever the season ends, I’ll be a free agent. That’ll give me a lot of options if I still want to play — Not a lot of options, but … I would think maybe 1 or 2 if I decide I still want to play.”
After getting cut by the Jets in March, Rodgers considered retiring before signing with the Steelers. Rodgers rewarded the Steelers’ patience, throwing for 3,322 yards, 24 touchdowns and 7 interceptions this season in 16 games. Rodgers missed time this season with a wrist fracture.
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If Rodgers decides to retire, longtime Steelers backup quarterback Mason Rudolph and rookie quarterback Will Howard are under contract next season.
The Steelers will play the Houston Texans in the wild-card round of the playoffs on Monday. This is Rodgers’ first playoff appearance since 2022, when he was with the Green Bay Packers.
This story will continue to be updated.