Aaron Rodgers went through every emotion possible on his way back to the playoffs for the first time since the 2021-22 season, when he was still with the Packers.
The Steelers managed to clinch the AFC North and spot in the playoffs in dramatic fashion as a missed 44-yard field goal by Ravens kicker Tyler Loop as time expired securing a 26-24 win over Baltimore.
“It’s pretty emotional, honestly,” Rodgers told NBC after the win. “It’s been a great year. I’m thankful for these guys and excited to be going to the playoffs for the first time in a long while.”
Rodgers went through it all, watching with sorrow on his face as the Ravens lined up what should have been an easy kick to win the game and before leading the Steelers down the field on a six-play 1:25 drive to score the go-ahead 26-yard touchdown pass to Calvin Austin II.
Aaron Rodgers #8 of the Pittsburgh Steelers looks on during the second quarter against the Baltimore Ravens at Acrisure Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
And a drive before that, Rodgers was spotted screaming at the Steelers’ sideline as he dealt with an issue with the communications system in his helmet, making it hard for him to hear what play was being called.
In the end, Rodgers was able to raise his arms in victory before walking off the field with a smile on his face as the NBC broadcast captured him walking down the tunnel to the locker room, beaming from ear to ear.
Rodgers, 42, will be making his first playoff appearance since the 2021-22 season with the Packers.
It was a stark difference from a few minutes earlier when he was watching from the sideline as Lamar Jackson took the Ravens down the field in the final minute of the game.
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) greets tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) after an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026.
He was slumped over on the bench, looking on.
“It sucked. It’s the worst part of this game,” Rodgers said, while laughing, when discussing that moment. “I’d rather have the ball in my hand. We haven’t made it easy for ourselves for most of the year. … On offense, we didn’t handle our business the first half, but the second half, we came out with a different focus. When we had to have points, we went down and scored.”
Rodgers finished the game with 31 completions for 294 yards and a touchdown pass in the dramatic win.
The Steelers will now face the Texans in the Wild Card round on Monday at 8:15 p.m.
News
Pittsburgh Steelers Announce Major Changes to Acrisure Stadium Ahead of 2026 Season — Team Responds After Fans Said a New Feature Felt “Overwhelming,” Promising Adjustments to Improve the Game-Day Experience and Restore Comfort for Supporters.
THE Pittsburgh Steelers are announcing major changes to Acrisure Stadium. Significant changes are being made to the Steelers‘ stadium for 2026…
Kayla Simmons is turning heads once again after sharing a bold beachside look that quickly set social media buzzing. Dubbed by fans as one of the most eye-catching figures in volleyball, Simmons posted a series of photos in a minimal white bikini — and reactions poured in almost instantly. From “mesmerising” to “unreal,” followers didn’t hold back as the post racked up engagement. Known for blending her athletic background with a strong online presence, Simmons continues to build a brand that goes far beyond the court. While the photos grabbed attention, it’s the consistency of her influence that stands out most. And one detail in the post is what fans keep coming back to. It might explain why she continues to dominate the spotlight.
KAYLA SIMMONS has bared her bum in a tiny bikini leaving her fans stunned on social media. The world’s sexiest…
A stunning reversal has caught fans off guard as a Pittsburgh Steelers star has already walked back his retirement — just weeks after stepping away from the game. What initially seemed like a definitive goodbye is now looking more like a pause, with the player signaling a return that’s raising eyebrows across the National Football League. Retirement decisions in the NFL are rarely simple, often shaped by physical demands, personal factors, and unfinished business — and this situation appears to be no different. Fans are split between excitement and confusion, trying to understand what changed so quickly behind the scenes. Teammates and insiders are also reacting, with speculation building about what this means for the Steelers moving forward. But one detail about the timeline of his decision is what’s drawing the most attention. And it could reveal why this U-turn happened so fast.
A FORMER PITTSBURGH STEELERS star has announced his decision to return to the NFL just weeks after hanging up the…
Life off the field is taking center stage for Dak Prescott as he and ex-fiancée Sarah Jane Ramos navigate a complicated custody situation following their high-profile breakup. After what many described as a messy split, both sides are now reportedly focused on finding a stable path forward — putting co-parenting and long-term priorities ahead of past tensions. For Prescott, the situation adds a deeply personal layer to an already demanding career with the Dallas Cowboys, where pressure never really lets up. Sources suggest efforts are being made to keep matters as private and constructive as possible, even as public interest continues to grow. Fans have been watching closely, with reactions ranging from support to curiosity about how things will unfold. But one key approach both sides are taking is what’s drawing the most attention. And it could define how this situation evolves moving forward.
Dak Prescott and ex-fiancée Sarah Jane Ramos are taking steps to amicably come to terms on a temporary custody arrangement…
Josh Allen and Hailee Steinfeld Announce Birth of First Child — The Buffalo Bills Star and Hollywood Actress Share Joyful News, Marking a New Chapter as They Welcome Their Baby Into the World.
Bills quarterback Josh Allen and his wife, actress Hailee Steinfeld, are officially a family of three. The couple announced Thursday…
A powerful full-circle moment is unfolding for an NFL player whose actions off the field once made headlines for all the right reasons. After bravely pulling a man from a burning car and saving his life, the National Football League star is now being handed a career lifeline of his own — a second chance that’s capturing attention across the football world. At the time, his heroic act drew widespread praise, showing a side of athletes fans don’t always get to see. Now, as he looks to revive his career, that moment is being remembered as more than just a headline — but a reflection of character. Teams are always weighing talent against intangibles, and stories like this can carry real weight. As news spreads, support is pouring in from fans and insiders alike. But one key detail about this opportunity is what’s standing out most. And it could determine whether this comeback truly takes hold.
KJ OSBORN has reportedly agreed a one-year deal with the Tennessee Titans. The wide receiver, 28, has not played in…
End of content
No more pages to load
