The expectation has been that Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers will retire at the conclusion of the 2025 NFL season. Sunday's AFC North-deciding game between the Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens could be Rodgers' final game if he loses and Pittsburgh misses the playoffs. Well, not so fast.
When Rodgers signed a one-year contract with the Steelers last offseason, he claimed he was "pretty sure" it would be his final campaign. Speaking with reporters earlier this week, the 42-year-old quarterback's tone has now slightly shifted. Rodgers says he'd have "options" if he chooses to continue playing.
Rodgers is correct. He's performed at a starting-caliber level, completing 65.6% of his passing attempts with 23 touchdowns and seven interceptions. In case Rodgers continues playing, we've identified three potential fits via free agency in 2026.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The most logical solution would be to re-sign with the Steelers, especially if they defeat the Ravens on Sunday and win the AFC North. Head coach Mike Tomlin and Rodgers have appeared to get along swimmingly throughout the campaign. There's a mutual respect between two future Hall of Famers.
Even if the Steelers miss the postseason, they won't be selecting high enough in the 2026 NFL Draft to guarantee themselves a quality replacement. It would likely take an aggressive trade-up to secure an ideal quarterback prospect. Rodgers and Tomlin have kept the Steelers competitive, and there are worse outcomes for both parties than a reunion.
Arizona Cardinals
The Arizona Cardinals find themselves in a tough position. They essentially benched longtime starting quarterback Kyler Murray earlier this season. Murray eventually went on season-ending IR with a foot injury despite appearing ready to return to action. The current belief is that he'll play elsewhere in 2026.
If the Cardinals manage to trade Murray this offseason, they'll immediately be in the market for a new starting quarterback. Jacoby Brissett obviously isn't a long-term answer. Currently slated to choose at No. 5 overall in the draft, the Cardinals could try to position themselves for Dante Moore or Fernando Mendoza. If they fail, a veteran stopgap like Rodgers would be the alternative. Rodgers would inherit a supporting cast that includes Trey McBride and Marvin Harrison Jr., and he'd appreciate the local weather as a California native.
Miami Dolphins
The Miami Dolphins are entering unpredictable territory. Like the Cardinals, they benched their expensive quarterback Tua Tagovailoa earlier this season. Head coach Mike McDaniel is potentially on the hot seat and should learn his fate next week. The Dolphins will also hire a new general manager after firing Chris Grier in-season.
What happens at quarterback in Miami this offseason depends on the outcomes for Tagovailoa, McDaniel, and the general manager hiring process. McDaniel has kept the Dolphins competitive and they're currently outside the top 10 of the 2026 NFL Draft order. If they intend to keep their window open, bringing in Rodgers would delay the inevitable rebuild.