Aaron Rodgers gave an honest answer about his potential retirement after the Pittsburgh Steelers ' playoff loss to the Houston Texans .
Aaron Rodgers isn't rushing into any decisions about his future after the Pittsburgh Steelers' playoff loss to the Houston Texans.
The 42-year-old quarterback made it clear he won't let emotion dictate whether he plays another NFL season or calls time on his career.
Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images
Following the Pittsburgh Steelers' 30–6 defeat to the Houston Texans in the AFC wild-card round, Aaron Rodgers was asked directly about retirement.
His response was brief but telling, as he would not make an emotional decision. Rodgers added that he plans to take some time before deciding what he does next.
"I'm not going to make any emotional decisions. I'm disappointed. Obviously, such a fun year. A lot of adversity, but a lot of fun…
"It's disappointing to be sitting here with the season over. I'm not going to talk about that. Just get away, and have the right conversations."
The four-time NFL MVP added that he wants to evaluate his body and motivation before making any commitments about returning in 2026.
It came after one of Rodgers' toughest games of the season. He completed 17 of 33 passes for 146 yards, with no touchdowns, one interception, and two fumbles — one of which was lost. His final throw, a pick-six by Houston safety Calen Bullock , sealed the loss for Pittsburgh.
Aaron Rodgers signed a one-year, $13.65 million contract with the Steelers in June 2025 and delivered a steady but uneven season.
He started all 16 games, throwing for 3,322 yards, 24 touchdowns, and seven interceptions while completing 65.7% of his passes. His 94.8 passer rating marked an improvement from 2024, though his overall efficiency ranked in the middle of the league.
Pittsburgh's offense struggled for rhythm in the postseason, managing only 175 total yards on 56 plays against Houston's defense.
Rodgers was replaced by Mason Rudolph for the final drive, as the Texans advanced comfortably to the next round.
With Rodgers set to become a free agent, his next move remains uncertain. Whether this was his final appearance or another pause before one more season, his message was clear — any decision about retirement will be made on his terms, not in the heat of the moment.
Read More: Aaron Rodgers had touching message for Shedeur Sanders after Cleveland Browns upset
