Mike Tomlin believes Aaron Rodgers will continue playing in 2026, even though the veteran quarterback has still not publicly confirmed his plans.
The former Pittsburgh Steelers coach was asked about Rodgers during an appearance after it was announced that he would be joining NBC‘s Football Night in America.
Tomlin coached Rodgers in 2025, giving his comments extra weight as speculation continues over whether the quarterback will return for another year.
Asked what he expected Rodgers to do in 2026, Tomlin pointed to the quarterback’s continued attachment to football, the preparation process and the locker room environment.
“I think at the end of the day, he’ll play football,” Tomlin said.
Mike Tomlin backs Aaron Rodgers to keep playing
Tomlin suggested that Rodgers still has a deep connection to the sport, not only on game day but in the quieter parts of the job.
That includes working with younger players, being around teammates and staying involved in the routine that comes with preparing for an NFL season.
The comment does not amount to an official announcement from Rodgers, but it is still notable given Tomlin‘s first hand experience with him during the 2025 campaign.
Rodgers has often kept teams waiting over his future, and his 2026 decision appears to be following a similar pattern.
Last year, he did not sign until mandatory minicamp in June, which added to the uncertainty surrounding his offseason plans.
Steelers quarterback room waits for clarity
If Rodgers does return, the expectation is that Pittsburgh would be the most likely landing spot.
There are few obvious alternatives around the league unless another team suddenly needs a starting quarterback because of injury or a major roster change.
The situation is complicated by the fact that the Steelers already have several quarterbacks in the building.
Pittsburgh used a third round pick on former Penn State quarterback Drew Allar, while Mason Rudolph and Will Howard are also on the roster.
That creates a crowded depth chart if Rodgers decides to return, but his experience and stature would still make him the main story.
For now, Tomlin has offered his prediction, but the final call remains with Rodgers. Until he confirms his future, the Steelers must continue preparing for more than one possible outcome.
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