Is Pittsburgh the final stop for Aaron Rodgers? Ian Rapoport shares major update on Steelers and 2026 future

Aaron Rodgers’ future may finally be close to an answer. Speaking at the NFL Scouting Combine, NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport made it clear that other teams are not seriously in the mix. According to Rapoport, it is “Pittsburgh or nothing” for Rodgers. That comment has narrowed months of talk down to one simple outcome, either the veteran quarterback returns to the Pittsburgh Steelers, or he walks away.

Rodgers, now 42, played the 2025 season in Pittsburgh on a one-year deal. He threw for 3,322 yards with 24 touchdowns and seven interceptions, helping the Steelers finish 10-7 and win the AFC North. The season ended with a wild-card loss to the Houston Texans, but Rodgers showed he could still play at a high level. With free agency approaching, the Steelers are waiting for his final call, hoping it comes before the market fully opens.

Ian Rapoport points to Pittsburgh Steelers reunion as Aaron Rodgers weighs decision with Mike McCarthy and Omar Khan

Ian Rapoport did not dance around the topic. At the Combine, he said, “Surely an answer is coming before free agency. That’s what it feels like. Pittsburgh or nothing. Good experience. Liked the locker room a lot, like, made some friends. It was a really good experience. Played certainly well enough, played through injuries. If he was going to come back for anyone, Mike McCarthy makes sense, so obviously, that would seem to be the spot.”

That quote matters because it removes the idea of a bidding war. Instead, this looks personal. Rodgers knows the system. He knows the building. And with Mike McCarthy back leading the team, there is familiarity. The two worked together for years earlier in Rodgers’ career.

Steelers general manager Omar Khan has also suggested this process should move faster than last year’s long wait. While he has not set a firm deadline before free agency begins, he has made it clear the team does not want weeks of uncertainty.

Rodgers has stayed calm in public. After the season, he said, “I’m not going to make any emotional decisions.” That line sums up his approach. He has reportedly visited the facility and spoken with team leaders, taking his time before choosing what comes next.

If he decides to retire or step away, Pittsburgh does have backup plans. Options on the market could include Daniel Jones, Malik Willis, or possibly Kirk Cousins, depending on availability. The Steelers also hold 12 picks in the 2026 NFL Draft and continue developing young quarterback Will Howard alongside veteran Mason Rudolph.

Still, the focus remains on Rodgers. And if Ian Rapoport is right, the choice is simple, he can either return to Pittsburgh or close the chapter for good.





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