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Steelers Sign 42-Year-Old Aaron Rodgers to One-Year Deal

5/19/2026

Summary

Rodgers Joins Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers announced that quarterback Aaron Rodgers signed a one-year contract on May 18, 2026 worth $22 million, rising to $25 million with incentives.
Rodgers will reunite with head coach Mike McCarthy, his former Green Bay coach who won Super Bowl XLV with him.
At 42, Rodgers becomes the league’s oldest active player, offering veteran mentorship to younger quarterbacks Will Howard and Drew Allar before the Sep 13, 2026 season opener.

Summary

Rodgers Returns

Teammates first learned of Aaron Rodgers' return via the Steelers' Twitter and Instagram, showing his secretive reputation.
Aaron Rodgers' first OTA throw linked with newly acquired wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr., their initial on-field connection.
The Steelers' depth chart placed Aaron Rodgers, Will Howard, Mason Rudolph and Drew Allar, with Allar celebrating on Instagram.
Having four quarterbacks fuels speculation that Mason Rudolph could be the first cut before the regular season.

History

Historical Context

When Denver signed veteran quarterback Peyton Manning to a five-year, $96 million contract on March 20 2012, the Broncos leapt to a 13-3 record, won the AFC West and captured Super Bowl 50 two seasons later. That veteran-QB boost established a modern template, which the 2026 Steelers echo by adding 42-year-old Aaron Rodgers on a one-year, $22 million deal to mentor a four-quarterback roster.

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Rodgers Joins Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers announced that quarterback Aaron Rodgers signed a one-year contract on May 18, 2026 worth $22 million, rising to $25 million with incentives.
Rodgers will reunite with head coach Mike McCarthy, his former Green Bay coach who won Super Bowl XLV with him.
At 42, Rodgers becomes the league’s oldest active player, offering veteran mentorship to younger quarterbacks Will Howard and Drew Allar before the Sep 13, 2026 season opener.

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