The Arizona Cardinals might be contemplating their quarterback strategy for the 2026 season. Following the departure of a notable name like Kyler Murray, one NFL insider has put forth an intriguing possibility: Aaron Rodgers.
Rodgers, currently a free agent, has the liberty to sign with any team or even opt for retirement. It’s widely believed that Rodgers is nearing the end of his illustrious career, with perhaps only one more season remaining. The decision of whether to hang up his cleats or return to the field, potentially joining former Green Bay Packers head coach Mike McCarthy, is yet to be finalized.
Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk has suggested that the Cardinals could represent a viable option for Rodgers. Florio elaborated on this possibility, stating:
“The only obvious remaining option, other than Pittsburgh, is Arizona. Nathaniel Hackett, one of Rodgers’s trusted coaches, is the offensive coordinator. Mike LaFleur, the Rams’ offensive coordinator a year ago when Rodgers was Plan B if Matthew Stafford was traded, is the head coach. But the Cardinals are caught in the basement of one of the best divisions in football; it would be a steep uphill climb for Rodgers to cap his career with a playoff berth.”
At 42 years old, Rodgers might understandably be hesitant to spend the twilight of his career facing the formidable defenses of the NFC West, enduring constant pressure. While opinions on the Pittsburgh Steelers may vary, they appear to be in a significantly stronger position than the Cardinals across numerous aspects, with the exception of their NFLPA Report Card grades.
For Rodgers to consider Arizona, it would likely hinge on the assumption that he would be the undisputed starter. This scenario would necessitate the Cardinals moving on from Jacoby Brissett, even with Gardner Minshew already under contract for the 2026 season.
From the Cardinals’ perspective, this move could hold some appeal. If their long-term quarterback prospect, Ty Simpson, does not pan out as hoped, Rodgers could at the very least generate considerable revenue through jersey and ticket sales during a 2026 season that is currently projecting to be similar to the struggles of 2025.
However, the Steelers still present a more compelling destination for Rodgers. Ultimately, the decision would likely rest on Rodgers’s feelings regarding Mike McCarthy, who was dismissed during Rodgers’s tenure with the Packers.
Despite the speculation, Rodgers appears to be taking his time with the decision-making process. He recently shared his thoughts on The Pat McAfee Show:
“I’ve talked to Mike [McCarthy]. I’ve talked to Omar. There’s been no deadline that’s been put in front of me. There’s no contract offer or anything, so there’s nothing that I’m having to debate between. I’m a free agent, and I’m enjoying my time with my wife and this part of the offseason. I think there are conversations to be had down the line, but right now, there haven’t been any progressive conversations.”
The potential landing spots for Aaron Rodgers continue to be a subject of much discussion as the offseason unfolds, with the Arizona Cardinals now entering the conversation.
