Aaron Rodgers likely to sign with Pittsburgh Steelers for 2026 season
Four-time MVP quarterback Aaron Rodgers is expected to visit the Pittsburgh Steelers this weekend with the intention of playing for the franchise during the 2026 NFL season.
While no formal agreement is currently in place, sources indicate the veteran caller is highly likely to commit his future to the Pennsylvania organisation.
Steelers president Art Rooney II previously expressed confidence that the situation would be resolved shortly, despite an initial expectation of a definitive answer prior to the NFL draft.
However, general manager Omar Khan and head coach Mike McCarthy have both insisted there is no strict deadline for the 42-year-old to make his final decision.
Khan indicated that ongoing negotiations with the unattached free agent have “all been positive and good.”
Exclusive negotiating rights secured
In order to protect their interests while the former Green Bay Packer evaluated his options, Pittsburgh applied a rarely used unrestricted free agent tender late last month.
This strategic move ensures the team will receive a compensatory draft pick should the seasoned signal-caller choose to sign elsewhere.
If he accepts the tender, he will receive a 10% pay increase from his previous salary, guaranteeing him approximately $15m for the upcoming campaign.
Furthermore, the tender grants the Steelers exclusive negotiating rights if he remains unsigned by 22 July, or the start of the team’s training camp.
A successful reunion in Pittsburgh
The future Hall of Famer adapted seamlessly to life in Pittsburgh during the 2025 season after signing a one-year contract ahead of their June minicamp.
Despite fracturing his wrist and missing a Week 12 clash against the Chicago Bears, he still guided the team to a 10-6 record across his 16 starts.
He concluded the year having completed 65.7% of his passes, throwing 24 touchdowns compared to just seven interceptions.
Committing to the 2026 season would extend his successful reunion with McCarthy, under whom he famously won a Super Bowl championship following the 2010 season.