Aaron Rodgers is officially staying in Pittsburgh. The Steelers confirmed on May 18 that the 42-year-old quarterback has signed a new one-year contract, keeping him in the Steel City for the 2026 season and extending his NFL career into a 22nd year.

The move also makes Rodgers the oldest active quarterback in the league once again. The deal, worth up to $25 million with $22 million guaranteed, ends months of uncertainty about Rodgers' future.

After briefly considering retirement following his 21st season, Rodgers ultimately chose to return after leading Pittsburgh to a division title and playoff appearance last year.

Steelers quarterbacks coach Tom Arth praised the veteran's energy and mindset as he rejoined the team's offseason program immediately after signing.

"He's extremely focused and locked in," Arth said. "He's such a competitive player, but he has so much fun playing the game. And that's what I really enjoy about Aaron."

According to USA Today, Arth also highlighted Rodgers' deep understanding of the game and competitive drive, calling his football intelligence "off the charts."

Rodgers is now preparing for the mandatory minicamp in early June after joining voluntary OTAs right away.

Aaron Rodgers Returns to Steelers

Rodgers' return continues a career that already places him among the NFL's all-time greats. Across stints with the Green Bay Packers, New York Jets, and Steelers, he has thrown for more than 66,000 yards and 527 touchdowns, along with a passer rating above 102. He also holds the active lead in completions, passing yards, and touchdown passes.

In his most recent season with Pittsburgh, Rodgers played 16 games, completing 65.7% of his passes for 3,322 yards and 24 touchdowns, NBC News reported.

While his deep passing numbers were lower than in earlier years, he still guided the team to key wins, including a division-clinching performance in the regular-season finale.

His contract extension follows a familiar pattern in recent years, with Rodgers playing year-to-year while weighing retirement decisions. At 42, he is now sixth all-time among quarterbacks in terms of age at start, and he could be 43 by season's end.

Rodgers' career has taken him from Green Bay, where he won four MVP awards and a Super Bowl, to brief stops with the Jets and now Pittsburgh, where he continues to add to his legacy.