Aaron Rodgers has confirmed that the 2026 NFL season will be the final chapter of his career, but not everyone is celebrating the announcement.
The veteran quarterback faced heavy criticism online after describing his return to the Pittsburgh Steelers as one last ride, with many fans accusing him of dragging out retirement drama once again.
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Speaking during Steelers organized team activities on Wednesday, Rodgers made it clear that this season would be his final campaign. “This is it,” the 42-year-old quarterback told reporters after signing a one-year deal with Pittsburgh. Unlike last year, when he left the door slightly open about his future, Rodgers sounded firm this time.
MORE: Aaron Rodgers gives definitive answer on future plans after 2026
Rodgers admitted he almost walked away after longtime Steelers coach Mike Tomlin stepped down following the 2025 season. However, Pittsburgh’s decision to hire Mike McCarthy changed his thinking. Rodgers spent 13 seasons under McCarthy with the Green Bay Packers and won Super Bowl XLV together in 2011.
“I love Mike T. I really appreciate the opportunity to come in last year and love my experience with him,” Rodgers said in a clip shared by the NFL on X. “I thought when he said he was stepping away, that was an emotional moment just because we all love him so much and care about him. I thought that was probably it for me in Pittsburgh. But when the decision was made to hire Mike (McCarthy), I started to open my mind back up to coming back.”
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NFL fans react to Aaron Rodgers’ ‘one last ride’
Along with Rodgers’ comments, the NFL wrote on X, “One last ride for @aaronrodgers12.” A section of reaction from fans quickly turned harsh.
One user wrote, “Wish he would just go away, tired of his drama.”
Another joked, “This is the longest last ride in the history of last rides.”
A third fan added, “This dude is so dramatic. His football story about to be aired on Hallmark channel.”
“Hang up your jock strap dude, you been washed up since the Jets. You should have retired after GB, and went out a good QB. Now, you will be remembered as a washed up hasben. YOU SUCK !!!” one angry fan wrote.
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A fan reacted, saying, “Rodgers is as convoluted a personality one seldom, if ever, encounters in any walk of life. There must be a famous comparable but I can’t think of one. Bill Belichick might come close.”
“Typical for Rodgers to make this season all about himself lol good luck Steelers,” one user wrote.
Rodgers’ 22nd NFL season
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) warms up at Huntington Bank Field.
Despite the criticism, Rodgers enters his 22nd NFL season with a chance to add another strong finish to his Hall of Fame resume. Last season, he guided Pittsburgh to a 10-7 record and an AFC North title before a disappointing Wild Card loss to the Houston Texans. Rodgers threw for 3,322 yards, 24 touchdowns, and seven interceptions in 16 starts.
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The Steelers also improved their offense during the offseason by adding wide receiver Michael Pittman and rookie Germie Bernard. With McCarthy back alongside Rodgers, Pittsburgh hopes the final ride ends with one more playoff push.