PITTSBURGH — Shortly after Aaron Rodgers signed a one-year deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers last June, the future Hall of Fame quarterback joined “The Pat McAfee Show” to address his decision — and his future.

“I’m pretty sure this is it,” Rodgers said. “That’s why we just did a one-year deal, the Steelers didn’t need to put any extra years on that or anything. This was really just about finishing with a lot of love and fun and peace for the career that I’ve had.

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“It’s been a long run and I’ve enjoyed it. What better place to finish than in one of the cornerstone franchises of the NFL with Mike Tomlin and a great group of leadership, great guys and a city that expects you to win.”

For Rodgers, Pittsburgh presented an opportunity to end his career on a positive note after two tumultuous seasons with the New York Jets. For the Steelers, the one-year deal provided the team with a veteran voice of leadership — and a bridge to a 2026 NFL Draft full of quarterback talent.

Well, at least that was the initial plan.

At the midpoint in the season, Rodgers has already won as many games with the Steelers as he did in a full season with the Jets. Pittsburgh sits atop the AFC North at 5-3, with a two-game lead over the Baltimore Ravens. And most importantly, Rodgers’ play has significantly improved after one of his worst statistical seasons in 2024.

Could both sides reconsider and decide to run it back in 2026?