Former NFL WR Makes Bold Prediction About Aaron Rodgers’ Career Amid Buzz Around 4-Time MVP’s Final Season

Several commentators and former players have questioned Aaron Rodgers’ potential final NFL season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, but not everyone is discounting him just yet. Andrew Hawkins, a former NFL wide receiver and ESPN analyst, is taking a completely different route and has boldly predicted that not only will Rodgers succeed in 2025, but it won’t be his final season.

Hawkins Predicts Aaron Rodgers Will Lead Steelers to Playoffs and Return for 2026

Appearing on Get Up, Hawkins offered a surprisingly optimistic take on Rodgers’ future in Pittsburgh.

“I think he will make the playoffs,” Hawkins said. “I think we’re going to see a version of Aaron Rodgers that we haven’t seen from him in the last few years. He’s going to play loose… just play quarterback, not be the head coach, not be the GM, not be the PR director.”

Hawkins believes that once Rodgers settles into the new culture and starts winning games, he’s going to feel re-energized. “I think he’s going to enjoy it so well that the Steelers fan base is going to embrace him,” Hawkins said. “And that won’t be his last year. I think he comes back for one more.”

Pittsburgh Steelers Build AFC Contender Around Rodgers With Key Additions Jalen Ramsey and Jonnu Smith

On the other hand, Pittsburgh has subtly assembled one of the AFC’s most well-rounded lineups. Recently, the Steelers acquired veteran tight end Jonnu Smith and All-Pro cornerback Jalen Ramsey. With Ramsey joining an already outstanding defense that features T.J. Watt, Pittsburgh’s secondary is now one of the best in the league. Smith gives the tight end group much-needed variety and seasoned leadership, giving Rodgers more options.

The Steelers are not the same squad that had trouble producing a consistent offensive output the previous season. Pittsburgh wants to win the AFC North, not just compete, with Rodgers leading the team, a revamped defense, and a more potent offensive unit. Although the Bengals, Browns, and Ravens may present difficulties, no quarterback in the division has the background or experience quite like Rodgers.

Hawkins’ take reverses the narrative in an offseason dominated by goodbye speeches. And if he’s correct, the Steelers could be opening the door to a final title run and more, in addition to receiving one year of Rodgers’ greatness. The climb won’t be easy, as they’ll also face the Kansas City Chiefs in a loaded conference, but there are many reasons to be optimistic.