Aaron Rodgers has agreed to a one‑year contract that can reach $25 million with the Pittsburgh Steelers for the 2026 season, bringing the 42‑year‑old quarterback back to the NFL after a brief hiatus.
While the deal limits his value in traditional one‑quarterback formats, analysts expect Rodgers to be a mid‑ to late‑round selection in Superflex and two‑quarterback leagues, where his experience could still translate into weekly upside.
The move also marks a reunion with offensive mastermind Mike McCarthy, who coached Rodgers for 13 seasons in Green Bay and helped him post at least 21.5 fantasy points per game in every year of their partnership.
Fantasy Outlook for the Steelers' Skill Players
Under McCarthy’s scheme, the Steelers’ receiving corps is projected to see a boost. In 2025, DK Metcalf posted a career‑low 12.5 PPR points per game, but he logged 59 catches for 850 yards and six touchdowns on 99 targets with Rodgers on the field.
Veteran Michael Pittman, who finished his Indianapolis tenure with 11.9 PPR points per game in 2025, is another beneficiary; he recorded 80 receptions for 784 yards and seven scores on 111 targets, and the new chemistry could push his numbers higher.
Second‑round rookie Germie Bernard, an Alabama product, has already drawn attention as a late‑round flier; he amassed 64 catches for 862 yards and seven touchdowns in just 14 games during his debut season.
The impact extends to the Steelers’ tight ends and backfield. Tight ends Darnell Washington and Pat Freiermuth are not expected to see a dramatic shift in fantasy value, while running backs Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle could benefit from additional play‑action opportunities.
Early draft guides suggest Warren should be considered as early as the sixth round, with Dowdle slated for a seventh‑round selection, reflecting the optimism surrounding the offense’s depth.
Overall, Rodgers’ return adds a layer of unpredictability that could reshape roster construction in the upcoming draft season, especially for those who target high‑upside skill players in Pittsburgh.