‘Odds increasing’ Aaron Rodgers returns to Steelers as new coach, star receiver make their pitches

The likelihood of a reunion between Aaron Rodgers and Mike McCarthy is “increasing.”

Rodgers has spoken with the newly hired Steelers coach — his longtime coach in Green Bay — about re-signing for a 22nd NFL season and a second in Pittsburgh.

McCarthy, who coached Rodgers with the Packers from 2006-18, was hired late last month to replace Mike Tomlin.

Aaron Rodgers warms up prior to the AFC Wild Card playoff game against the Houston Texans at Acrisure Stadium on January 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Getty Images

“Rodgers has not yet informed the Steelers whether he will return for a 22nd NFL season, but my understanding is the odds are increasing,” NFL Insider Tom Pelissero said Sunday morning on NFL Network ahead of Super Bowl 2026. “I am told Rodgers has spoken several times with new Steelers coach Mike McCarthy, who, of course, helped Rodgers develop into a four-time MVP and a Super Bowl winner in Green Bay.

“Rodgers also has spoken with wide receiver DK Metcalf, who wants Rodgers back at age 42. The plan is for Rodgers to take a little bit more time, and everyone hopes comes to a decision prior to the start of free agency in mid-March.

“Now, this is Aaron Rodgers, and only he knows ultimately where this is gonna go.” Pelissero continued.

“If he’s gonna come back, they need to work out a contract, but at this point it would not be a surprise if Rodgers is back in Pittsburgh.”

The 42-year-old Rodgers led the Steelers to an AFC North title with a 10-7 record and threw for 3,322 yards with 24 touchdowns and seven interceptions in 16 starts during his first season with the Steelers before suffering a 30-6 loss to the Texans in the Wild Card round.

Mike McCarthy speaks with Aaron Rodgers (12) during the NFC Championship game between the Green Bay Packers and Atlanta Falcons on January 22, 2017. Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Rodgers, who spent the previous two seasons with the Jets, stated last year that he was “pretty sure” the 2025 campaign would be his final one in the NFL.

McCarthy said upon being introduced as Steelers coach that he “definitely” is open to the idea of the four-time MVP returning as his starting QB in 2026.