Aaron Rodgers' Return to Steelers Sparks Fantasy Football Strategies for 2026
Aaron Rodgers officially reunited with the Pittsburgh Steelers on Saturday night, signing a one-year deal worth up to $25 million for the 2026 season. This decision has significant implications for fantasy football enthusiasts, particularly regarding how to draft key players this year. Fantasy managers should consider Rodgers, now 42, as a desperation play in one-quarterback leagues, where he may not be worth drafting. However, in Superflex and two-quarterback formats, he could be a valuable mid- to late-round pick. Rodgers returns to work with Mike McCarthy, who coached him for 13 seasons in Green Bay before being hired this offseason to replace Mike Tomlin. This partnership aims to revitalize Rodgers' performance, following a 2025 season where he averaged only 17.2 Fantasy points per game, totaling 3,322 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and seven interceptions. The Steelers have bolstered their receiving corps with the addition of Michael Pittman and Germie Bernard, alongside DK Metcalf. Expectations are cautiously optimistic: DK Metcalf: Had 59 catches for 850 yards and six touchdowns in 2025. Draft as early as Round 8. Michael Pittman: Averaged 11.9 PPR points last season with the Colts. Also a Round 8 pick. Germie Bernard: A second-round rookie worth a late-round flier. The value of tight ends Darnell Washington and Pat Freiermuth, as well as running backs Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle, remains stable with Rodgers' return. Warren is the preferred option, ideally drafted in Round 6, while Dowdle, with ties to McCarthy, could emerge as a strong contender for the No. 1 running back role. As we look forward to 2026, fans hope for a productive final season from Rodgers before his likely retirement. This reunion could reshape the fantasy landscape for the Steelers.
Source: CBS Sports - 2026-05-17