The Pittsburgh Steelers are going all-in this season to give Aaron Rodgers one last shot at reaching the promised land. They’ve built a strong foundation around him, including one of the NFL’s best defenses and the acquisition of DK Metcalf. After all, this is likely Rodgers’ final year.
“Yeah, I'm pretty sure this is it," said Rodgers. "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.”
With training camp underway and the regular season fast approaching, Rodgers seems fully aware that the end is near. But in what appears to be his final chapter, Rodgers is already flashing shades of his Super Bowl-winning form.
“I can confirm it AaronRodgers can still really throw the football… it’s crazy in person! 2010-11 Super Bowl Flashbacks,” ESPN’s Ryan Clark posted.
While the current Steelers roster is built to compete now, it’s not built for longevity. That could set the franchise up for a major reset in 2026, potentially even opening the door to one of the most coveted quarterback prospects in years.
“Next offseason, Pittsburgh will be back at square one at quarterback and could enter 2026 with no clear future at the position. That could set up something that Mike Tomlin has never endured as head coach — an under .500 season. With an aging roster (particularly on defense), 2026 could prove to be a transition year for Pittsburgh, where they shed some of their older talent and set up building blocks for the future. That would likely result in a poor record, thus creating the avenue for the Steelers to land Manning. In this scenario, they can truly begin building around a young quarterback instead of the one-year veteran experiments,” CBS Sports’ Tyler Sullivan wrote.
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Arch Manning is expected to remain in college for at least two more seasons, having served as Quinn Ewers’ backup. If the Steelers hit a low point in 2026, it could end up being a blessing in disguise — giving them a shot at a quarterback with one of the most successful bloodlines in NFL history. While a lot has to fall into place, Manning-to-Pittsburgh could mark the start of a bright new era.