Rodgers signs one-year deal with Steelers for 2026 season

Aaron Rodgers has agreed to a one-year contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers for the 2026 NFL season, according to reports from CBS Sports. The deal is valued at up to $25 million, comprising a base salary between $22 million and $23 million alongside performance incentives. The 42-year-old quarterback concludes a prolonged decision-making process that extended well beyond the NFL draft.

The signing marks a reunion between Rodgers and head coach Mike McCarthy, who was hired this offseason to replace Mike Tomlin. Tomlin stepped down following the Steelers’ elimination by the Houston Texans in the AFC wild-card round. McCarthy previously coached Rodgers for 13 seasons with the Green Bay Packers, a tenure that included a Super Bowl XLV victory in 2010.

Fantasy analysts at CBS Sports suggest the partnership may revitalise Rodgers’ output. During his time with McCarthy in Green Bay, Rodgers averaged at least 21.5 fantasy points per game. In contrast, he averaged 17.2 fantasy points per game in 2025 under former offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, recording 3,322 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and seven interceptions across 17 games.

The Steelers have also bolstered their receiving corps with the additions of DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman. Metcalf averaged 12.5 PPR points per game in 2025, while Pittman averaged 11.9 PPR points in his final season with the Indianapolis Colts. Analysts note that both receivers could see increased target shares, with Metcalf offering higher upside due to his big-play ability.

Rookie receiver Germie Bernard is also viewed as a potential value addition, described as a late-round flier in seasonal leagues. In the backfield, running back Rico Dowdle’s prior connection with McCarthy in Dallas may position him as the primary ball carrier, while Jaylen Warren is expected to maintain a significant role in the passing game.