The Pittsburgh Steelers seemed to wait forever for quarterback Aaron Rodgers to make up his mind about the 2025 season. The Steelers have gone through a gauntlet of short-term starters and one-year veterans over the past couple of seasons, none of whom have panned out as they look for a post-Ben Roethlisberger option under center.
But now that they have their man for the 2025 season, everyone wants to know if his career in Pittsburgh is one and done or if he could hang around a few years like Tom Brady.
Aaron Rodgers’ 1-Year Steelers Deal Comes With Shocking Career Confession
The Steelers and Rodgers came to terms months after discussions began, agreeing on a one-year deal worth $13.65 million, with a potential for up to $19.5 million in incentives.
Rodgers has always been a controversial figure, so it was not surprising when he seemed to drag his feet a bit on signing, although he cited some personal matters as the reason. The slow pace at which he moved made many fans feel he was being disrespectful to a franchise with a proud history.
However, since he signed, Rodgers has been a consummate professional. He attended the mandatory minicamp, something he had skipped in the past. He discussed mentoring young quarterback Will Howard and building chemistry with his receivers. This has slowly won over many of his doubters.
A regular fixture on “The Pat McAfee Show,” many have been waiting for Rodgers to appear on an episode and candidly answer some questions about his plans. When asked about the one-year contract, Rodgers didn’t hesitate to say that this is likely his only year in black and gold.
“I’m pretty sure this is it, that’s why we did the one-year deal,” admitted Rodgers. “The Steelers didn’t need to put any extra years on that or anything. This was really about finishing with a lot of love and fun and peace for the career that I’ve had.”
“I’m pretty sure this is my last season and that’s why we did the one year deal..
I’ve played twenty years and I’ve enjoyed it..
There’s no better way to finish it than with Mike Tomlin and the Pittsburgh Steelers” @AaronRodgers12 #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/hWN5veErEH
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) June 24, 2025
Now entering his 21st season, Rodgers will play for the team he defeated in Super Bowl 45. “I’ve played 20 frickin’ years. It’s been a long run and I’ve enjoyed it. What better place to finish it than in one of the cornerstone franchises of the NFL, with Mike Tomlin and a great group of leadership and great guys, in a city that expects you to win?”
During his 20 seasons in the NFL, Rodgers has established himself as one of the greatest players to have ever played the game. He was the MVP of Super Bowl 45 as well as a four-time NFL MVP. He is a five-time All-Pro and a 10-time Pro Bowler. He has led the league in passer rating, passing touchdowns, and completion percentage.
Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers told the @PatMcAfeeShow that he’s “pretty sure this is it”, the last season of his NFL career. Rodgers said it is why he signed a one-year deal in Pittsburgh. pic.twitter.com/MVRVcQhd6E
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 24, 2025
The Steelers are not considered to be merely a quarterback away from making it to the Super Bowl, but don’t tell that to their head coach, Tomlin. He has built a reputation for himself in the league because of his winning attitude, which attracted Russell Wilson in 2024, and has now helped them score Rodgers under center.