Steelers Owner Art Rooney II Sets Draft Day Deadline for Aaron Rodgers’ Retirement Decision

Pittsburgh Steelers owner Art Rooney II expects a decision from quarterback Aaron Rodgers by the 2026 NFL Draft as the veteran weighs retirement.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 2, 2026, 5:58 AM EDT

Source: People

The Search for a Definitive Verdict Aaron Rodgers, who joined the Steelers on a one year, $13.65 million contract in June 2025 following his release from the New York Jets, is currently a free agent evaluating his professional future. Art Rooney II confirmed to reporters that while he has not spoken to the four time NFL MVP personally, new head coach Mike McCarthy has maintained regular contact. Rooney expressed optimism that a resolution is imminent, emphasizing the organization's need for clarity as they approach the upcoming selection process in late April.

Reuniting with a Familiar Coaching Philosophy Should Rodgers choose to return to Pittsburgh, he would be playing under a familiar face. The Steelers recently replaced longtime head coach Mike Tomlin with Mike McCarthy, who previously coached Rodgers during their successful tenure with the Green Bay Packers. McCarthy has reported that Rodgers is in a "positive space" this offseason. This coaching shift is viewed by league analysts as a strategic move to provide Rodgers with a comfortable and proven system, potentially incentivizing the veteran to delay retirement for at least one more campaign.

Management's Push for Offseason Clarity The push for a quick decision mirrors sentiments shared by Steelers General Manager Omar Khan. During the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine in February, Khan noted that neither the organization nor the player desired a repeat of the protracted drama that characterized Rodgers' previous offseason transitions. While the "door remains open" for a return, the front office is clearly prioritizing a timeline that allows them to pivot their roster building strategy should they need to seek a new starting quarterback during the draft or remaining free agency period.

Physical Readiness and Personal Motivation Despite the uncertainty regarding his NFL future, Rodgers has remained vocal about his commitment to physical fitness. During a March appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, the quarterback confirmed he is staying in peak condition, though he attributed his motivation to personal life rather than strictly professional goals. Rodgers humorously noted that his desire to stay fit was driven by his relationship with his wife, whom he revealed he has been with since 2017. These comments suggest that while football remains an option, his priorities have shifted toward long term health and fami...