Aaron Rodgers confirms that 2026 will be his final NFL season

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers has confirmed that he plans to retire after the 2026 season comes to an end.

Rodgers spoke to the media on Wednesday and ESPN’s Brooke Pryor confirmed on social media that he said this will be the last season of his NFL career.

TOP NEWS

49ers minority owner set to purchase Seahawks for $9.612 billion

NFL 6 hours ago

Washington Commanders to retire John Riggins’ No. 44

NFL 3 days ago

Bills QB Josh Allen reveals Olympic gold medal aspirations

Josh Allen 3 days ago

Pryor also shared that Rodgers felt uncertainty about returning after longtime head coach Mike Tomlin left the Steelers. When they hired Rodgers’ old coach Mike McCarthy, the feeling shifted.

“I thought that was probably it for me in Pittsburgh,” Rodgers said. “But when the decision was made to hire Mike, I started opening my mind back up to coming back.”

After months of mystery and doubt, Rodgers officially agreed to a one-year deal returning to the Steelers last week. His comments on Wednesday provide further clarity for the Steelers, who can now being planning out their QB room for the 2027 season and beyond.

For now, it looks like the Steelers are trying to win big in what will now be Rodgers’ final season of a legendary career.

James Parker is a sports writer for Ball Exclusives, follow him on X @TheJames_Parker

About the Author Published May 20, 2026

JAMES PARKER

James Parker is a sports reporter and writer for Ball Exclusives. With a bachelor's degree earned at the age of 19, he’s spent years working as a sports journalist, including an award-winning stint at The Appalachian. He has never used AI for his work in any way, shape or form.