Aaron Rodgers Discloses Bold Reason Behind Signing a One-Year Contract with the Steelers: “It’s Been a Long Run”

Aaron Rodgers hints that he will retire after the 2025-26 season and that's why he signed a one year contract instead of two.

Aaron Rodgers Discloses Bold Reason Behind Signing a One-Year Contract with the Steelers: “It’s Been a Long Run”

Aaron Rodgers (Image via IMAGO/X)

Aaron Rodgers’ football legacy nearly ended in week one of the 2023 season after he tore his Achilles. There were clear signs that he might retire. However, the four-time NFL MVP, who was pushing 40 then, completed his rehab at an unprecedented pace.

He came back the next year, played every game for the Jets before leaving the Big Apple, and desired to continue his search for a second Super Bowl ring.

After months of an intense cat-and-mouse game regarding his next team, Rodgers, now 41, signed a one-year deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Many were caught off guard by the contract length because in March, NBC Sports‘ Mike Florio had suggested Rodgers might agree to a two-year, $90 million deal with $40 million guaranteed. Instead, he signed a much lower $13.5 million contract that will expire after the 2025-26 season.

He never really spoke about the reason behind signing only a one-year deal until now. Rodgers appeared on the Pat McAfee Show on June 24, ending a long hiatus, and disclosed why he’s only in Pittsburgh for one season.

I’m pretty sure this is it [for me]. That’s why I just did a one-year deal. 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 have had. I’ve played 20 frickin’ years. It’s been a long run, and I’ve enjoyed it.

Aaron Rodgers revealed

Rodgers’ contract includes a $10 million guaranteed amount. If 2025 is the last season of his career, he must go out with a bang by leading the Steelers to silverware.

Aaron Rodgers doesn’t want to live in the public eye after retirement

Rodgers will undeniably be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. However, he has slowly become a polarizing figure in his twilight years.

Aaron Rodgers Discloses Bold Reason Behind Signing a One-Year Contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers It’s Been a Long Run
Aaron Rodgers at the Steelers minicamp (Image via IMAGO)

The new management at the Jets cut Rodgers because of the ‘drama’ that followed him throughout his time in the Big Apple. Despite the unforeseen events, he appreciated that the Steelers and Mike Tomlin were ready to give him a chance to play.

As a token of appreciation, he participated in the minicamp instead of ditching it like the previous two years. However, Rodgers will disappear from the public space once the season is finished.

I didn’t need it at all. I don’t feel the need to prove anything to anybody, [or don’t] have any chip on my shoulder that I need to hold on to. I don’t want the attention. I know that’s a narrative out there. When this is all done… You won’t see me [again].

Aaron Rodgers told McAfee

That might happen down the line, but for now, Rodgers’ main priority is enjoying the Steelers experience and leading them to wins.

All I need this year is [just to go out there and], have a chance to compete. That’s why I’m working so hard, because I want to put myself in a position [to be able] to play 20 games this year—and 20 great ones.

Rodgers quipped

Rodgers looked good in patches, even though the Jets only won five games last year. He completed 63% of his passes for 3897 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. The Steelers open their 2025 journey by traveling to the MetLife Stadium to play the Jets.

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