Aaron Rodgers signs one-year $25 million deal to return to Pittsburgh Steelers

Quarterback Aaron Rodgers, the four‑time NFL MVP, agreed to a one‑year contract worth up to $25 million with the Pittsburgh Steelers, confirming his return for the 2026 season. The 42‑year‑old said the team's recent offseason moves and the presence of head coach Mike McCarthy convinced him to come back, noting additions such as rookie lineman Max Iheanachor, second‑round pick Germie Bernard and veteran receiver Michael Pittman Jr.

Rodgers' decision follows months of speculation after he contemplated retirement following the 2025 campaign, during which he posted 3,322 passing yards (15th in the league) and a 24‑to‑7 touchdown‑to‑interception ratio. The Steelers, who lost a wild‑card game to the Houston Texans, hope the new roster and offensive scheme will improve their playoff prospects.

During a recent press conference, Rodgers gave a terse answer when asked about his summer activities in Pittsburgh, prompting NFL commentator Mike Florio to criticize the response as “strangely combative.”