Aaron Rodgers enters the 2026 NFL season under a one-year contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers worth up to $25 million, having repeatedly stated since May that this will be his final year after 22 NFL seasons. The 42-year-old quarterback, who reunited with head coach Mike McCarthy, has emphasized “zero debate” on retirement during training camp and recent interviews, citing a desire to start a family with his wife and step away from the spotlight afterward. This public clarity, combined with no reported injuries or contract disputes heading into Week 1, underpins the market’s near-certain trader consensus that he will not retire before the season begins. Late scratches or unforeseen health issues remain the only realistic variables that could still shift the outcome.