At a Glance
> At a Glance
> – Rodgers says 2026 season still an option
> – He’s thrown for 3,028 yards, 23 TDs, 7 INTs this year
> – Steelers face Week 18 showdown to win AFC North
> – Why it matters: Rodgers’ future will shape the franchise’s direction
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, now 42, has left the door open for a 2026 season as the team heads into a pivotal Week 18 game against the Baltimore Ravens. The veteran’s recent comments and strong statistical performance suggest he may still have a role in the league. His decision will have lasting implications for the Steelers’ roster and the upcoming draft.
Rodgers Keeps 2026 Door Open
Aaron Rodgers said:
> “Whenever the season ends, I’ll be a free agent.”
> “So that’ll give me a lot of options if I still want to play. (Maybe) not a lot options, but there’ll be options, I would think. Maybe one or two.”
He added that he wants to focus on the current game rather than long-term plans.
Season Performance and Health
Rodgers has logged 3,028 passing yards, 23 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions heading into the elimination game. He has also remained largely healthy, only missing a game due to a fractured wrist on his non-throwing hand.
- 3,028 yards
- 23 touchdowns
- 7 interceptions
- One missed game (fractured wrist)
Team Context and Draft Outlook
The Steelers are eyeing the 2026 NFL draft, which will be held in Pittsburgh, as a key opportunity to find a new franchise quarterback. While the class once looked stacked, many top prospects have chosen to stay in school, leaving the draft less crowded.
| Prospect | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fernando Mendoza | Early first-round pick | Expected to be selected by a team early in the first round |
| Arch Manning | In school | Chose to stay in college |
| LaNorris Sellers | In school | Chose to stay in college |
Rodgers highlighted the challenges of adapting to a new system, drawing parallels to his transition in Green Bay in 2019. Aaron Rodgers said:
> “I used to tease LaFleur about this all the time.”
> “I was a game manager in 2019 and a game impactor in 2020 and 2021. I think a lot of it’s just familiarity with the offense and with the guys.”
He also praised the Steelers’ locker room, noting that the camaraderie has made him grateful for his time in Pittsburgh. Aaron Rodgers said:
> “If I hadn’t taken this path, I never would have met so many guys in the locker room who I now call close friends and wouldn’t have the experiences and the memories on the field.”
> “I feel like there would be a little hole in my life, you know, missing without having this chapter. So I’m thankful for this time.”
Key Takeaways
- Rodgers remains open to a 2026 season, keeping the door open for a 22nd year.
- He’s delivered strong numbers this season (3,028 yards, 23 TDs, 7 INTs) and has stayed healthy.
- The Steelers’ draft strategy and locker-room culture may influence his decision and the franchise’s future.
As the Steelers enter the final week, Rodgers’ openness to a 2026 season adds a layer of intrigue to an already high-stakes game.
