Aaron Rodgers produced mixed results in his lone season with the Pittsburgh Steelers. His individual statistics were relatively unimpressive, but he did win the tough AFC North division title. While his future in the NFL is currently in question, one legend believes that the franchise must prioritize bringing him back.
Aaron Rodgers Labeled as Steelers’ Only Choice for 2026 NFL Season
Rodgers averaged one of the fewest yards per game and totaled the fewest touchdowns in any season of his career in the 2025 season. This would be extremely alarming on its own, but he still found success in his first year with the Steelers by leading them to the playoffs.
The franchise now has a major decision to make, as he is pending free agency and is also rumored to be considering retirement. NFL legend Chad ‘Ochocinco’ Johnson recently commented on the situation, explaining why he could be their only legitimate option at quarterback.
“You know he’s coming back, because there’s no other answer at the position … You don’t have a choice. Just to even compete in this NFL, you need a quarterback, and sometimes age really doesn’t matter … Who gives the Steelers their best chance to compete? It would be Aaron Rodgers, and that’s just the way the NFL is,” stated Ochocinco.
Ocho says the Steelers must bring back Aaron Rodgers pic.twitter.com/VwCnRecwzX
— 📸 (@archive1517) February 17, 2026
Rodgers has already proven he can win in Pittsburgh, and their recent change at head coach makes his potential return even more intriguing. Mike Tomlin stepped down from his role following their first-round playoff loss, and the Steelers replaced him with Mike McCarthy.
Their new head coach has a proven history with the veteran quarterback, having won a Super Bowl together during their run with the Green Bay Packers. Ochocinco referenced this in his claim that Rodgers gives the Steelers their best chance to compete for a championship this upcoming season.
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As an individual, he’s coming off a disappointing year in which he finished 29th among quarterbacks in PFSN NFL QB Impact Rankings. He still managed to win the AFC North title, including defeating the Baltimore Ravens twice in the final five weeks of the season to clinch a playoff spot.
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This creates an interesting outlook amid his potential return to Pittsburgh, especially given his previous success under McCarthy. The Steelers are likely aiming to compete again this year, and while the veteran quarterback is surely past his prime at this point, his proven history may make him their most reliable option in the short term.
