It was originally thought that the Pittsburgh Steelers were the only team that was in the running for future first-ballot Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers. But now, it appears as though the Arizona Cardinals could have interest in him. With Cardinals wide receiver Kendrick Bourne attempting to recruit Rodgers to the desert, it appears as though this is not just a rumor.
However, former NFL punter and current show host Pat McAfee doesn’t believe this for one minute. In fact, while speaking on his show today, he voiced his opinion on why this wouldn’t make sense for Rodgers himself.
Aaron Rodgers Belongs with the Pittsburgh Steelers
GettyQB Aaron Rodgers posted a passer rating of 94.8 with the Steelers in 2025.
Here is what McAfee had to say about the idea of Rodgers going to play for the Cardinals in 2026:
“This makes no sense. This would make no sense. This is zero communication from Aaron Rodgers since this report…Why in the blue hell would Aaron Rodgers go to a LaFleur-led team in Arizona that has allegedly worse facilities than the Pittsburgh Steelers?”
McAfee also noted how the Cardinals have been a predominantly struggling franchise for the last decade, in his own words, of course. His answer is also right. Why would Rodgers leave a winning situation in the Steel City for a struggling franchise that just hired a first-time head coach in Mike LaFleur, who is four years younger than Rodgers?
The only play for Rodgers should be Pittsburgh. He has the chance to link back up with his former Green Bay Packers head coach, Mike McCarthy. Together for 13 seasons (2006-2018), the two made the playoffs eight consecutive seasons, won five NFC North titles, and brought home Super Bowl XLV. Furthermore, Rodgers already has a year of experience under his belt with the Steelers. On possibly the 18th hole of his illustrious career, why would he start over again with his third different team in the last three years?
The Steelers Can Win More in 2026
GettyQB Aaron Rodgers and DT Cam Heyward celebrating after winning the AFC North last season.
Simply put, the Steelers are the better option. Not only are they one of the winningest organizations in the history of the sport, but they are prepared to try and contend in 2026. The Cardinals, on the other hand, are not. Pittsburgh made major moves in free agency by trading for two-time 1,000-yard pass-catcher Michael Pittman Jr. and signing back-to-back 1,000-yard rusher Rico Dowdle. This team is better this year. It can go further than it did last year.
Not only has McCarthy never finished last in his division as an 18-year NFL head coach, but he has posted a .500-or-better record in 13 of those 18 seasons. His teams, especially his Aaron Rodgers-led teams, have almost always remained competitive and in contention.
After recording 25 total touchdown passes and just seven interceptions last season, Rodgers should feel quite comfortable in the Steel City for one more go-around. It would be a great way to cap off what should be recognized as one of the greatest careers in NFL history for a quarterback.
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