Aaron Rodgers not expected to re-sign with Steelers

This isn’t particularly stunning within the wake of feedback proprietor Artwork Rooney II made following Tomlin’s exit.

“Aaron got here right here to play for Mike, so I feel it’ll most definitely have an effect on his determination,” Rooney stated of Rodgers’ future.

Throughout his journey to free company final offseason, Rodgers reportedly informed the Vikings they had been his most well-liked crew. After Minnesota didn’t reciprocate, the longtime Packer and ex-Jet pivoted to Pittsburgh on a one-year, $13.65M contract.

Of their solely yr working collectively, Rodgers and Tomlin shaped a robust bond throughout a 10-7 marketing campaign. With Rodgers offering an improve over predecessor and fellow short-term stopgap Russell Wilson, Tomlin went out together with his eighth AFC North title and thirteenth playoff berth.

Together with his Steelers tenure possible over, it’s unclear if the 42-year-old Rodgers will intention to play a twenty second season in 2026. Rodgers stated earlier than the season that it could in all probability be his final, however he left the door open for a 2026 return in late December. Whereas a Monday morning report pointed to mutual curiosity in Rodgers persevering with as a Steeler subsequent yr, that was earlier than their season fizzled out with a 30-6 loss to the Texans within the wild-card spherical. Tomlin stepped down the subsequent day.

If that is it for Rodgers, his illustrious profession will conclude on a decent word. The Steelers didn’t have an amazing offensive supporting solid round him, however Rodgers accomplished 65.7% of passes, amassed 3,322 yards, tossed 24 touchdowns towards seven interceptions, and posted a 94.8 passer score in 16 video games. Which may be sufficient to persuade different groups to pursue him as a short-term repair within the offseason.

With Rodgers seemingly achieved in Pittsburgh, it’s unknown which route the crew will take at quarterback this offseason. Mason Rudolph is below contract for an additional yr, however he’s possible higher off in a backup function. Sixth-round decide Will Howard, who didn’t throw a cross as a rookie, is one other in-house possibility. In any other case, free company, the commerce market and the draft might be potential avenues for the Steelers. With nonetheless a few months earlier than choices are made on that entrance, the Steelers are working to discover a new head coach for the primary time since 2007.