ESPN: Aaron Rodgers Big Decision Could Hinge On Steelers Coach Mike Tomlin's Return

If the Pittsburgh Steelers lose in the Wild Card round, it could lead to the most uncertain future that the team has had in a very long time. At 42 years old, quarterback Aaron Rodgers needs to decide if he wants to retire or play for another season. Meanwhile, rumors have been swirling about Head Coach Mike Tomlin, as another embarrassing defeat in the postseason could make him wish to take on other endeavors. All in all, the 2026 season seems to be so far away due to how nothing is certain at this point. 

While making an appearance on SportsCenter, NFL insider Jeremy Fowler spoke about that situation, but he brought a new angle to it: their decisions may be connected to each others.

"I have spoken to a source close to Mike Tomlin who believes him stepping away after the season is at least a possibility," Fowler said. "Only Mike Tomlin knows what he wants to do. It could hinge on how far they go in the playoffs. What does Aaron Rodgers do? He and Rodgers have really hit it off, so if Rodgers wants to come back for another season, that could be a factor."

There's no doubt that Rodgers and Tomlin have had a bit of a bromance since the quarterback's time with the Green Bay Packers, and that has been on display for everyone to see during the 2025 season, especially after wins on the road. The coach publicly shot down the idea of him leaving the team after the playoffs, but that could also be a way to keep his team from suffering through distractions. 

Rodgers has addressed his potential retirement multiple times. He claimed that 2025 would most likely be his final season before it even started, but he has walked that back. One thing that's for sure: he likes to keep people guessing on what his plans are. At this point time, he might not even know if he wants to retire or play again, whether that's with the Steelers or another quarterback-needy team.

Rodgers also loves to take his time, which could directly impact Tomlin's decision if Fowler's report is true. The 19th-year head coach would be doing a major disservice to the Steelers if he takes as long to make his decision as his quarterback usually does. The best possible thing that he can do is let the team know that he is staying or leaving the day after Pittsburgh's season ends.

Steelers' Scenario Could Be Totally Flipped Around

Rodgers' decision could affect what Tomlin wants to do, as Fowler mentioned, but the inverse is most likely true as well. There is most likely no head coach in the league that is as willing to cater to the four-time MVP than the one he is currently playing for. If the Steelers' leader decides to walk away from the game, his quarterback could follow him into the sunset. 

As mentioned before, Rodgers loves to take his time with things, but the Steelers can't just sit around and wait for him to decide if he wants to stay or not. With loads of uncertainty at the quarterback position, they need to come up with a plan for 2026 and the long-term future, too. Guys like Mac Jones or Malik Willis could be quality starters, but they won't come if the 42-year-old is still undecided in April.

Of course, Tomlin was more than happy to give Rodgers all the time in the world in the 2025 offseason. If he decides to stay in Pittsburgh for another year, he would most likely give his quarterback as long as he needs to come back. He set a soft deadline of training camp to hear from the veteran in the previous year, and that could be the case again. With the coach coming back, there is incentive for the veteran to return for another run.

What do you think about Rodgers and Tomlin's retirement plans possibly banking on each other? Let us know in the comments or on X at @Steelers_ChrisB.

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