Aaron Rodgers returns to Pittsburgh: Can the Steelers win the AFC North?

The news that everyone saw coming has finally dropped. Aaron Rodgers will continue his Hall of Fame-worthy career as the Pittsburgh Steelers' quarterback in 2026.

The 43-year-old agreed to a one-year deal worth up to $25 million to return for a second season, putting an end to weeks of the kind of drawn-out will-he-won't-he drama that has become as much a part of his annual routine as training camp.

Naturally, his return makes us wonder whether Pittsburgh can repeat as AFC North champions in a division that features two other elite gunslingers.

Here, I break down what Rodgers has left to give and evaluate the divisional landscape before delivering my verdict.

What does Rodgers bring to the table?

Rodgers isn't going to be heaving it 300 yards every game. That's not who he is, and it's not who he's been for some time.

His 2025 numbers, including 3,322 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and 6.7 yards per completion, are all way down compared to the version of Rodgers who won four MVP awards between 2011 and 2021.

His low turnover rate - he threw only seven interceptions last year - should be applauded, but his reticence to throw the ball downfield has to be baked into how loudly we clap.

But it's telling that even at his ripe old age, it's easier to identify Rodgers' strengths, and when we're discussing what he offers the Steelers in 2026, it starts with the cerebral.

One of the sharpest offensive minds on the field at any one time, Rodgers is the ultimate game manager, unshakable under pressure, and with the arm talent to still take advantage when he spots an opportunity.

Ten wins, an AFC North title, and a game-clinching drive in an all-important Week 18 clash with Baltimore tell you almost everything you need to know about what Rodgers brings to the table as a winner.

Combine him with the new head coach, Mike McCarthy, who coached Rodgers through his best years in Green Bay, and it wouldn't surprise me if Rodgers had another vintage year.

The AFC North picture

Baltimore's struggles don't take away from how impressive it was that the Steelers won the division last year.

But defending that title, given the level of competition in the AFC North, will be a huge ask.

The Steelers' divisional opponents

The Ravens missed the playoffs last season for the first time since 2021 and have spent the offseason making what appear to be significant strides.

Jesse Minter takes over as head coach, Trey Hendrickson has arrived off the edge, and Lamar Jackson - a two-time MVP with a point to prove - remains the most dangerous player in this division by some distance.

Baltimore's draft class, which was not only headed up by standout Penn State guard Vega Ioane but also included real mid-round value at wideout, adds depth and a pipeline of talent to an already strong roster.

Don't sleep on the Cincinnati Bengals either. Burrow missed nine games with a toe injury in 2025 but proved that when healthy, his side can compete with anyone.

Dexter Lawrence bolsters a rebuilt defensive line, Boye Mafe and Bryan Cook were solid additions, and Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins still form the best receiving duo in the conference.

As for the Browns, even after drafting well, it's tough to see them competing for divisional bragging rights in 2026. They're likely still a year away.

Pittsburgh in the AFC North pecking order

While their division rivals have been working hard to improve, the Steelers haven't exactly been sitting on their hands.

At times last season, Rodgers seemed to have only two reliable outlets in D.K. Metcalf and running back Kenneth Gainwell.

Mindful of the need to improve in that regard, they upgraded Rodgers' arsenal by trading for wide receiver Michael Pittman, who has amassed more than 5,000 receiving yards in seven years.

Pittsburgh drafted well, too, with Max Iheanachor, who brings a much-needed upgrade at offensive tackle, and former Alabama wideout Germie Bernard, who is already impressing in training camp.

With a defense still boasting the terrifying pass-rush trio of T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig, and a secondary boosted by the arrival of Jamel Dean, the Steelers measure up well in the division.

My verdict: Can Rodgers and Pittsburgh repeat?

The Ravens are the bookmakers' favourites at 5/6, and I just about agree with that outlook.

Lamar Jackson is simply better than any other quarterback in this division, and their offseason additions make me think they will bounce back, health permitting.

At 11/5, the Bengals' odds reflect the wide range of outcomes tied to Burrow's health. If he plays seventeen games and the defense improves, Cincy could surprise. If not, hitting .500 may be a struggle.

Pittsburgh at 19/4 are a little low for me. Rodgers is back, McCarthy can probably squeeze more from this offense than Arthur Smith did, and defensively, they have the personnel in place.

It's advantage Ravens, but should they stumble, the Steelers will be waiting once again.

AFC North division winner odds courtesy of DAZN Bet and correct as of Sunday, May 17, 2026 at 10am: Ravens 5/6, Bengals 11/5, Steelers 19/4, Browns 16/1.