Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers has once again stated that his upcoming 22nd NFL season will be his final one. Rodgers, who re-signed with the Steelers this offseason, confirmed his retirement plans to reporters at training camp on Monday.
"This is it," Rodgers, 42, told media members. He had previously indicated his intention to retire after the 2025 season, but the hiring of Mike McCarthy as the Steelers' new head coach played a significant role in his decision to play one more year.
"I thought last year might be it and then Mike got hired, and then talked to the wife and she said, ‘You can do one more year. See if it works out.’ And then it kinda all came together," Rodgers explained.
Despite suggestions from some, including his top receiver DK Metcalf, that players often claim it's their last season only to return, Rodgers was definitive. "No, zero debate," he responded when asked if there was any uncertainty about his retirement.
Rodgers joined the Steelers for the 2025 season after a tenure with the New York Jets. In his first season with Pittsburgh, he led the team to a 10-6 record, throwing for 3,322 yards with a 65.7% completion rate, 24 touchdowns, and seven interceptions.
The Steelers have made several offensive additions for the upcoming season, acquiring veteran wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. via trade and signing running back Rico Dowdle. These moves aim to bolster the team's offensive capabilities as they prepare for Rodgers' final season.