Four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers remains undecided about returning to the Pittsburgh Steelers for the 2026 season despite the team's hiring of former Green Bay coach Mike McCarthy. Speaking on Pat McAfee's show, the 42-year-old quarterback confirmed he has no deadline from Pittsburgh and is still weighing his playing future. Rodgers, who threw 24 touchdowns and seven interceptions in 2025, signed a one-year $13.65 million contract last June.

Rodgers praised McCarthy as an 'exceptional human being' who 'bleeds Pittsburgh' and expressed excitement about reuniting with former Packers coaches joining the Steelers staff. He specifically mentioned offensive line coach James Campen and assistant Jahri Evans taking positions in Pittsburgh. Despite the nostalgic appeal, Rodgers emphasized that any decision requires mutual interest, noting 'it takes two to tango' when discussing potential return scenarios.

The quarterback also endorsed Steelers' 2025 sixth-round pick Will Howard, calling him a 'believer as a player' who will be 'more than capable' of starting in the NFL. Rodgers credited his successful 2025 season partly to being happy with his home life and feeling welcomed by teammates. He remains in contact with the quarterback room through group chats, maintaining relationships with Howard, Mason Rudolph, and Skylar Thompson.