Aaron Rodgers Updates Stance on NFL Retirement in Video Ahead of Steelers Training Camp - Bleacher Report

What the report says

Bleacher Report says Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers has made his retirement timeline explicit ahead of training camp, telling reporters Tuesday that there is no question the 2026 NFL season will be his last. The report, citing ESPN’s Brooke Pryor, said Rodgers dismissed the possibility of returning for 2027 and is preparing for a final campaign at age 42.

According to Bleacher Report, Rodgers said his decision to play a 22nd NFL season was influenced by Pittsburgh hiring his former Green Bay Packers coach Mike McCarthy. Rodgers said he had considered stopping after last season, but conversations at home and the chance to work with McCarthy helped bring the return together. If he plays this year, the report notes he would become the eighth player in league history to appear in at least 22 NFL seasons.

The article also included a more cautious view from Steelers wide receiver D.K. Metcalf, who suggested players sometimes reconsider after making end-of-season declarations. Metcalf said Rodgers may feel freer with the decision stated publicly and could enjoy what may be his last year with teammates and close friends.

Bleacher Report added that Rodgers started 16 games last season, played through a fractured left wrist after Week 11, and helped Pittsburgh win the AFC North before a Wild Card loss to the Houston Texans. The Steelers are scheduled to open the preseason Aug. 13 against the Packers, with the regular-season opener set for Sept. 13 at home against the Atlanta Falcons.