As the NFL regular season progresses, questions about future Hall of Famer and current Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers and his eventual retirement continue to surface. However, former NFL wide receiver and rival Chad Johnson believes the veteran quarterback still holds all the cards and isn't going anywhere just yet.
Speaking on the “Night Cap” podcast alongside co-host Shannon Sharpe, Johnson argued that despite Rodgers’ age, the quarterback remains the best option available for his team. Even as Rodgers approaches 43 next season, Johnson sees a quarterback who still possesses the talent and leverage to command the position.
"He coming back, man," Johnson emphasized during the broadcast. "Because there's no way, there's no door that they can open where they're going to find another quarterback. So, Aaron Rodgers going to play the long game like he does in the offseason."
Johnson pointed out that any prospective alternatives simply cannot match Rodgers' current level of play or experience, regardless of age.
"They don't have an answer at the quarterback position," Johnson added. "So even at 43, which he'll be next year, he still has the leverage. Because anyone else that is out there that might be younger, they're not going to be playing any better than this."
Sharpe noted that while Rodgers had previously discussed with his wife that this might be his final season, players often reconsider when they remain competitive in a heated division race. Sharpe also pointed to offensive support, highlighting how a strong run game featuring back Jaylen Warren keeps Rodgers "out of harm's way" by allowing him to get the ball out quickly.
Ultimately, Johnson’s assessment rests on a simple reality: elite quarterback talent is rare. As long as Rodgers continues to throw effectively and no clear successor exists, the door remains wide open for another run.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Chad Johnson believes Aaron Rodgers will stay with Steelers in 2027