Aaron Rodgers calls out his "ego" as 'major mistake' in 20-year NFL career

Aaron Rodgers opened up about his decision to return for another NFL season at 41. The four-time league MVP and former Super Bowl champion had this to say on Tuesday:

“I don't need it. For my ego, I don't need it to keep playing.”

Rodgers signed a one-year contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers for $13.6 million after weeks of speculation on whether he’d retire after being released by the New York Jets in February. His decision to come to Pittsburgh, according to Rodgers, was for one primary reason.

“A lot of decisions that I've made over my career and life from strictly the ego -- even if they turn out well -- are always unfulfilling. But the decisions made from the soul are usually pretty fulfilling.

"So, this was a decision that was best for my soul. I felt like being here with Coach T and the guys, they got here, and the opportunity here was best for me. I'm excited to be here.”

Aaron Rodgers seems the most likely to start for the Steelers in 2025 in a quarterback room that includes Mason Rudolph, Will Howard and Skylar Thompson.

The Steelers made the playoffs last season thanks in part to an outstanding season from Russell Wilson, who made the Pro Bowl and helped them to a 10-7 record. Mike Tomlin’s crew has made the playoffs four out of the past five seasons.

Aaron Rodgers teaming up with a familiar foe

During his days with the Green Bay Packers, Aaron Rodgers watched his fair share of DK Metcalf, who until this spring had played his entire career with the Seattle Seahawks, a Green Bay rival.

“We got to get together out west. I've gone against him a number of times,” Rodgers said of Metcalf.

The receiver out of Ole Miss could be one of Rodgers' main targets next season, having signed a five-year deal worth $150 million for the AFC North squad shortly after being traded by Seattle.

Aaron Rodgers and Metcalf have been developing some chemistry before the former officially signed in Steeltown, as the two worked out together at times during the offseason.

The QB is excited to have him as part of the offense next season:

“He's big, athletic, fast, great hands, ball skills, but the thing that really excites me the most is his character. I think he's a high-character guy.”

Metcalf has posted 900 yards or more receiving in every one of his NFL campaigns to date, making the playoffs three times.