Steelers' Aaron Rodgers keeps retirement options open ahead of must-win Ravens game

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Aaron Rodgers spent the offseason sounding like a quarterback nearing the end. But as the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for a win-or-go-home Week 18 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, the four-time MVP suddenly appears open to returning for another season.

Speaking to reporters Wednesday, Rodgers didn’t shut the door on the possibility of returning for a 22nd season. 

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers walks off the field after a game against the Cleveland Browns Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Cleveland.  (AP Photo/David Richard)

"I'm thinking about this week, but, obviously, I'm 42 years old, and I'm on a one-year deal," he said, via ESPN. 

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"So, you know what the situation is. Whenever the season ends, I'll be a free agent. So, that'll give me a lot of options if I still want to play. I mean, not a lot of options, but there'll be options, I would think, maybe one or two, if I decide I still want to play."

Rodgers' apparent change of heart comes months after he explained why the 2025 season would likely be his last. 

"I’ve played 20 frickin' years, it’s been a long run, and I’ve enjoyed it. And what better place to finish than one of the cornerstone franchises in the NFL with [Steelers head coach] Mike Tomlin and a great group of leadership and guys in a city that expects you to win," he said during an appearance on "The Pat McAfee Show" in June. 

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ Aaron Rodgers reacts after a touchdown during the second half against the Detroit Lions in Detroit Dec. 21, 2025. (Rey Del Rio/AP Photo)

STEELERS' AARON RODGERS GIVES BLUNT REACTION TO CONTROVERSIAL NO