NFL

Aaron Rodgers agrees one-year Steelers extension: Here’s how much he’ll earn in 2026

Veteran quarterback Rodgers will return to the Steelers on a one-year deal, reuniting with Mike McCarthy as he chases another championship.

JOE SARGENT

Mauricio Ruiz Fernández Roddy Cons

Update: May 17th, 2026 05:24 EDT

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Aaron Rodgers will extend his NFL career and play another season with the Pittsburgh Steelers after agreeing to a one-year contract for the 2026 campaign.

The 42-year-old veteran quarterback will enter his 22nd season in professional football, aiming to further cement a legacy that already places him among the most accomplished passers of his era. He will also pursue a second Vince Lombardi Trophy, following his Super Bowl win with the Green Bay Packers in the 2010 season.

Rodgers deal confirmed after weeks of uncertainty

Rodgers’ future had been in doubt for several weeks. However, NFL reporters Tom Pelissero and Adam Schefter confirmed the agreement has now been reached, ensuring the No. 8 jersey will remain at the center of Pittsburgh’s offense.

BREAKING: Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers agree to terms on one-year deal. (via @tompelissero, @adamschefter) pic.twitter.com/Qi8YnC2ZSn
— NFL (@NFL) May 16, 2026

Reunion with Mike McCarthy

The move also sets up a reunion between Rodgers and head coach Mike McCarthy, the man who oversaw the most successful stretch of his career in Green Bay.

McCarthy recently took over leadership of the organization, which holds the most Super Bowl championships in NFL history, adding another layer of narrative weight to Rodgers’ arrival and continuation in Pittsburgh.

Rodgers’ strong first season in Pittsburgh

In his first season with the Steelers, known as the “Steel Curtain,” Rodgers appeared in 16 games. He threw 24 touchdown passes and was intercepted just seven times.

He also surpassed 3,300 passing yards and played a key role in guiding Pittsburgh to a 10-7 record, enough to capture the AFC North division title.

Compensation update: Aaron Rodgers is expected to sign a one-year deal worth up to $25 million, per sources. The deal is expected to include a base salary between $22 and $23 million, with up to a few million more in incentives.

The deal still needs to be finalized and signed. https://t.co/jzndq6HNM3
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 17, 2026

How much will Rodgers make with the Steelers in 2026?

Rodgers’ new contract with the Steelers will pay him a base salary of between $22 million and $23 million, according to reports from Pelissero and Schefter. With incentives, the deal could reach as much as $25 million.