The Setup Around Aaron Rodgers Headlines Steelers' Reason for Optimism in 2026

According to Pro Football Focus, "the setup around Aaron Rodgers" headlines the Pittsburgh Steelers' reason for optimism in 2026. 

The Steelers acquired Michael Pittman Jr. from the Indianapolis Colts this offseason, so Rodgers now has Pittman Jr. and D.K. Metcalf. 

"If you were looking to create the best conditions for a 42-year-old Aaron Rodgers to make a final run as an NFL quarterback, it would be this," Pro Football Focus wrote. "Metcalf and Pittman can both win downfield, especially on those back-shoulder throws Rodgers has trademarked throughout his career. The offensive line has some question marks, notably Troy Fautanu moving back to the left side he manned in college after playing exclusively right tackle in his first two NFL seasons, but this is a unit that finished 2025 as the eighth-ranked group in PFF’s offensive line rankings."

One of the top quarterbacks in NFL history, Rodgers put up 3,322 passing yards, 24 passing touchdowns and seven interceptions last season. The future Hall of Famer completed 65.7% of his passes.

Rodgers has been in the NFL since 2005. He has played for the Green Bay Packers, New York Jets and Steelers. The four-time MVP has 527 career passing touchdowns and 66,274 career passing yards in the regular season.

Rodgers will retire from the NFL after this season. The future Hall of Famer and new Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy won Super Bowl XLV together as members of the Packers against Pittsburgh.

It will be intriguing to see how Rodgers and McCarthy do in 2026. 

"It’s super cool, just to be able to be part of his final chapter. It’s awesome," McCarthy told FOX Sports. "But I think he definitely fits the culture here. So yes, I think it’s a great story. But I think we just want to win. Let’s go win and do the things that we need to do to win. And he’s such a competitor. I love the time, once we cross the white lines, when we get to just go out there and compete. And he is one of the greatest to ever play the game."

The Steelers begin the 2026 season at home against the Atlanta Falcons. Let's see how many touchdowns Rodgers throws for in his final NFL season opener.