Steelers’ Aaron Rodgers says he plans to retire after 2026 season: ‘This is it’
The 42-year-old quarterback just signed a one-year deal with the Steelers.
Olivia Bennett 
The Aaron Rodgers era in Pittsburgh has an official expiration date. The 42-year-old quarterback confirmed on Wednesday that the upcoming NFL season will be his last, telling reporters, “Yes. This is it,” according to ESPN.
A Final Chapter in Steel City
Rodgers, a four-time NFL MVP, is returning to the Steelers after inking a one-year contract this week. The deal is worth up to $25 million and brings the veteran signal-caller back to the franchise he led to an AFC North title just last winter. The move also marks a reunion with head coach Mike McCarthy, with whom Rodgers spent 13 seasons at the Green Bay Packers.
The veteran made a splash on Monday by appearing on the practice field for the start of voluntary organized team activities, sporting a white No. 8 jersey. His decision to return ends months of speculation that followed his non-committal stance toward the end of last season.
Quarterback Room Dynamics
As Rodgers prepares for his swan song, he enters a crowded quarterback room. The organization has spent the offseason bolstering the position, most notably by selecting Penn State standout Drew Allar in the third round of the draft. Allar joins an existing roster that includes veteran Mason Rudolph and 2025 sixth-round pick Will Howard.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
