"Not a lot of options": Aaron Rodgers opens up about potential retirement after 1 year tenure with the Steelers

With one regular-season game remaining and Pittsburgh still not guaranteed a playoff spot, this week could mark the final NFL game of Aaron Rodgers.

The Steelers face a knockout matchup against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday. At 42 years old and two decades in the league, Rodgers could retire once the season ends.

Rodgers discussed his future on Wednesday, hinting that retirement is not a certainty. He said that there are several paths he could explore as free agency nears, leaving open the possibility that he'll suit up again next season.

"Listen, I’m thinking about this week, but obviously, I’m 42 years old and I’m on a one-year deal," Rodgers said to reporters. "So you know what the situation is. Whenever the season ends, I’ll be a free agent. That’ll give me a lot of options if I still want to play. I mean, not a lot of options, but there’ll be options. I would think, maybe one or two, if I decide I still want to play."

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Rodgers didn't specify what options he’s considering. However, there are indications that a return to the Steelers or a move to the Vikings are the most likely scenarios if he doesn't retire.

Before signing with Pittsburgh in June, multiple reports linked him to Minnesota before it opted to hand the reins to J.J. McCarthy.

Another option for Rodgers is to remain in Steel City for one more year, buying the team more time to look for its long-term option at quarterback.

While his play this season has been solid, he is no longer the same player he once was at his peak. A Super Bowl champion and four-time MVP, Rodgers has cemented his legacy and could decide to hang up his cleats following Sunday’s game.

What Rodgers decides next remains to be seen, but his full attention is on Pittsburgh’s must-win game.

Mike Tomlin hopes the Week 18 game vs. the Ravens is not Aaron Rodgers' last for the Steelers

Aaron Rodgers said that his future remains uncertain as Pittsburgh prepares for its regular-season finale. However, Steelers coach Mike Tomlin is hoping Week 18 isn’t the last time fans see the legendary quarterback playing for the team.

“I don’t know that (if Rodgers will retire)," Tomlin said to reporters on Wednesday. "I’ve taken time to ponder that. I’m just committed to making sure that it’s not. "He’s certainly been an awesome contributor to our efforts, not only from a talent perspective and an experience perspective, but just his professionalism, his relationship with the game, his love for his teammates and his willingness to help them grow and get better and gain a better understanding every day has been cool to be part of.”

Pittsburgh (9-7) can clinch a playoff spot with a win on Sunday. However, a loss would allow the Ravens (8-8) to win the division and sneak into the postseason.

Rodgers has completed 65.6% of his passes for 3,028 yards, 23 touchdowns, seven interceptions and a 95.3 passer rating this campaign.

Edited by Victor Ramon Galvez