No one should expect Aaron Rodgers to play anywhere in 2026 other than with the Pittsburgh Steelers. That said, retirement remains a possibility, and he could still shock the NFL world by requesting a trade. Recent speculation suggests the Steelers may be growing tired of Rodgers and his drawn-out decision-making process. However, that narrative could be nothing more than rumors.
Pittsburgh placed the Unrestricted Free Agent tender on Rodgers, meaning that, if he signs with another team before July 22, the Steelers would receive a compensatory pick. While this protects the organization, it doesn't necessarily prevent Rodgers from spurning the Steelers.
There are a few semi-realistic alternatives for Rodgers to consider moving forward, but a departure would undoubtedly disrupt the Steelers’ plans.
Aaron Rodgers could have options if he doesn't play for the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2026
New Orleans Saints
One of the few teams that could consider bringing Rodgers aboard is the New Orleans Saints. They currently have Tyler Shough at quarterback, and while he showed encouraging signs of development last season, adding Rodgers could elevate the franchise's rebuild to another level. New Orleans could emerge as a legitimate landing spot for the Steelers quarterback, especially given their weak division.
Denver Broncos
A possible dark horse option could involve waiting out Bo Nix’s injury recovery.
The Denver Broncos may already be showing early signs of concern, which could prompt a late pivot toward Rodgers. While it remains an unlikely scenario, it would make the most sense if Rodgers ultimately left Pittsburgh. Denver is a roster built to compete for a Super Bowl right now.
Arizona Cardinals
Recent rumblings have linked the future Hall of Famer to the Arizona Cardinals, but the connection makes little sense. Leaving the Steelers to join a rebuilding Arizona team in the highly competitive NFC West would be a puzzling move. Unless Rodgers is content spending his final season in a warm desert climate with a roster still finding its footing, the speculation does not add up.
Any contender who loses their starting QB
Pittsburgh would descend into chaos if Rodgers failed to sign with the team before or during training camp. While that scenario seems unlikely, Rodgers could choose to wait for a better opportunity by monitoring whether another team’s starting quarterback suffers an injury during the preseason, which happens more often than many realize.
Retirement
Perhaps the most likely outcome if Rodgers does not return to the Steelers, is retirement.
It may be his most logical destination, and one that a portion of Steelers Nation is openly rooting for. At 42 years old with a Hall of Fame résumé already secured, Rodgers has nothing left to prove. There is no obligation for him to return if his heart is not in it. Realistically, the options appear simple: return to Pittsburgh or call it quits. Most believe he will ultimately re-sign with the Steelers.
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