Aaron Rodgers discusses public perception ahead of final NFL season
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 10, 2026, 3:35 PM
Last updated Sep 10, 2026

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers has confirmed the upcoming NFL season will be his final year in the league. Reunited with head coach Mike McCarthy in Pittsburgh, the veteran addressed the origins of his polarizing reputation during an appearance on the Not Just Football podcast. Rodgers told teammate Cam Heyward that he attributes much of the negative sentiment directed toward him to his public opposition to the COVID-19 vaccine. He described the pandemic response as a worldwide strategy to test population compliance and maintained that he chose to speak openly about his perspective on the matter. Although Rodgers faced criticism for his vaccination status and failure to follow league safety protocols during his time with the Green Bay Packers, he stated he remains committed to speaking his version of the truth. The Steelers prepare for their opening game with expectations that the pairing of Rodgers and McCarthy can produce a successful final season.
- •Aaron Rodgers confirmed the current NFL season will be his last.
- •Rodgers is playing for the Pittsburgh Steelers under head coach Mike McCarthy.
- •The quarterback appeared on the Not Just Football podcast hosted by Cam Heyward.
- •Rodgers attributed public criticism to his stance on the COVID-19 vaccine.
- •The veteran previously played for the Green Bay Packers.
- 3:35 PMYahoo Sports — ‘That’s Why People Dislike Me’ — Aaron Rodgers Reveals Non-Football Reasons Behind Rising Hatred Towards Him
"A new NFL season is officially underway, and it marks the end of an era as veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers has confirmed that it will be his swansong in the league. Reunited with head coach Mike McCarthy on the Pittsburgh Steelers, the hope is that they can recapture some of their old magic.
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