Veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers is signaling the end of a storied NFL career, stating he is “pretty sure” the upcoming 2025 season will be his last. The 41-year-old (turning 42 in December 2025) shared this sentiment during an interview on “The Pat McAfee Show,” explaining that his decision was a key factor behind signing a one-year contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
“Yeah, I’m pretty sure this is it,” Rodgers stated, confirming the one-year deal reflected his intention to conclude his journey. “That’s why we just did a one-year deal. Steelers didn’t need to put any extra years on that or anything, so this was really about finishing with a lot of love and fun and peace for the career that I’ve had.”
Rodgers emphasized his desire to wrap up his extensive career, which spans two decades, in an environment he feels is ideal.
Why Pittsburgh?
After spending 18 years building a Hall of Fame legacy with the Green Bay Packers and a subsequent two-year stint with the New York Jets, Rodgers is embracing the opportunity to finish in Pittsburgh. He praised the Steelers as one of the NFL’s “cornerstone franchises” and highlighted his connection with head coach Mike Tomlin.
“I played 20 fricking years. It’s been a long run. I’ve enjoyed it, and no better place to finish than in one of the cornerstone franchises of the NFL with Mike Tomlin and a great group of leadership and great guys in the city that expects you to win.”
Rodgers revealed he and Tomlin spoke weekly during his decision-making process, valuing Tomlin’s patience and respect. The welcoming atmosphere, including a cookout at Tomlin’s home after signing, further solidified his commitment.
Reflecting on a Legendary Career
Rodgers enters what is likely his 21st NFL season as a future first-ballot Hall of Famer. His resume is stacked with accolades, including four NFL MVP awards, a Super Bowl XLV victory where he earned MVP honors (incidentally, against the Steelers), and 10 Pro Bowl selections.
Statistically, Rodgers ranks among the NFL’s elite. He is currently seventh all-time in career passing yards with 62,952 and fifth in passing touchdowns with 503. A strong 2025 campaign could see him surpass legends like Philip Rivers and Ben Roethlisberger in yards, and potentially Brett Favre and Peyton Manning in touchdowns. He also holds NFL records for the best career passer rating (102.6) and lowest interception percentage (1.4%).
Not About Redemption
Despite a turbulent two years with the Jets, which included tearing his Achilles tendon just snaps into the 2023 season and a challenging 5-12 record in 2024 (where he completed 63% of passes for 3,897 yards, 28 TDs, and 11 INTs for his lowest rating (90.5) since becoming a full-time starter), Rodgers insists his decision to play one more year isn’t driven by a need for a storybook ending or to prove doubters wrong.
“It’s not really ‘[I] can’t go out like this,'” he explained. “I love the game, and there’s been a beautiful relationship. It was my first love when I was 6 years old… I didn’t need this. 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.”
He feels his body is ready for the challenge, stating his left Achilles felt “incredible” in 2024 and continues to feel great. He remains committed to intense workouts, with teammates even planning to join him in Malibu for sessions.
“Empty the Tank” for Pittsburgh
Rodgers is focused solely on contributing to the Steelers in 2025. The team has made significant offseason moves, including trading for DK Metcalf to bolster the receiving corps after struggles at the position in 2024 led to departures like George Pickens. Rodgers’ arrival comes after a season where the Steelers relied on Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, neither of whom elevated the offense consistently.
“I’m going to give the Steelers everything that I got and empty the tank and be super comfortable and satisfied with whatever happens,” Rodgers affirmed, embracing the city’s winning culture.
The 2025 season will feature notable matchups for Rodgers, including facing his former Jets team in Week 1 and returning to play the Packers for the first time in Week 8 on “Sunday Night Football.”
A Future Out of the Spotlight
Looking beyond football, Rodgers expressed a strong desire for privacy once his career concludes. He pushed back against public interest in his personal life, which recently included confirming he is married but keeping his wife’s identity private.
“My private life is my private life, and it’s going to stay that way,” he asserted, lamenting the public scrutiny. He starkly described his plan for post-retirement: “When this is done, I’m done, and you won’t see me,” likening his planned disappearance from the public eye to the character “Keyser Soze.”
For now, however, Aaron Rodgers is all-in for what he anticipates will be his final chapter in the NFL, aiming to make it a memorable one with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He will be eligible for Pro Football Hall of Fame induction in 2031, five full years after his expected retirement.
