Steelers’ Aaron Rodgers keeps retirement options open ahead of Ravens’ must-win game
NEWNow you can listen to News articles!
Aaron Rodgers spent the offseason sounding like a quarterback nearing the end. But as the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for a decisive Week 18 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, the four-time MVP suddenly appears open to returning for another season.
Speaking to reporters Wednesday, Rodgers did not close the door on the possibility of returning for a 22nd season.
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers walks off the field after a game against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/David Richard)
“I’m thinking about this week, but obviously I’m 42 years old and I have a one-year contract,” he said via ESPN.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON News
“So, you know what the situation is. When the season ends, I’ll be a free agent. So, that will give me a lot of options if I still want to play. I mean, not a lot of options, but there will be options, I think, maybe one or two, if I decide I still want to play.”
Rodgers’ apparent change of heart comes months after he explained why the 2025 season would likely be his last.
“I’ve played 20 damn years, it’s been a long career and I’ve enjoyed it. And what better place to end it than one of the NFL’s cornerstone franchises with [Steelers head coach] Mike Tomlin and a great group of leaders and guys in a city that expects you to win,” he said during an appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show” in June.
Aaron Rodgers of the Pittsburgh Steelers reacts after a touchdown during the second half against the Detroit Lions in Detroit on Dec. 21, 2025. (Rey Del Rio/AP Photo)
STEELERS’ AARON RODGERS GIVES CONTINUOUS REACTION TO CONTROVERSIAL NON-CALL IN LOSS TO BROWNS
Rodgers has thrown for 3,028 yards with 23 touchdowns and 7 interceptions and has a chance to make a playoff appearance with a win over Lamar Jackson and the Ravens on Sunday.
“I hope I can get through this stretch and feel good physically, so that’s not in the conversation,” he added.
The next hurdle is a must-win game against Baltimore. The AFC North title is on the line, as is a playoff berth.
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers runs off the field during the first half against the Cleveland Browns in Cleveland on Dec. 28, 2025. (AP Photo/David Richard)
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE News APP
The Steelers host the Ravens on Sunday night at 8:20 pm ET.
The News contributed to this report.
Follow News Digital sports coverage in Xand subscribe to the News Sports Huddle newsletter.