Aaron Rodgers puts NFL career on hold as cancer battles in inner circle take priority over Steelers deal

No storyline has captured more attention — or generated more speculation in the NFL at present — than Aaron Rodgers’ uncertain future. The 41-year-old free agent quarterback, a four-time NFL MVP, is in the spotlight once again, not for a game-winning throw or a bold move on the field, but for taking his time to make what could be the most personal decision of his career: Will he return to football in 2025 — and if so, will it be with the Pittsburgh Steelers?Rodgers hasn’t played a down since his stint with the New York Jets, which ended on a disappointing 5-10 note. Despite the setbacks, teams have still kept their eyes locked on the veteran signal-caller. The Steelers, in particular, made a bold shift by moving on from Russell Wilson and Justin Fields — a decision believed to be rooted in their quiet confidence that Rodgers would eventually join their ranks. But as of now, that’s still a hope, not a done deal.What’s holding him back? The answer lies far beyond football.Aaron Rodgers recently opened up during a powerful appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience, offering a rare and deeply human glimpse into the reality he's facing off the field. "I've figured it out the last year when I've been in the weeds with these people who are close to me that have cancer," he revealed. It was a raw and honest moment that put everything into perspective — even for fans desperate to see him back in uniform.This isn’t the first time Rodgers has hinted at his internal struggles. Last month on The Pat McAfee Show, he spoke candidly about how football currently occupies a "small percentage" of his mind. “Because the conversations have been had. There’s no more contemplation. I’m taking care of my people right now, and I’m taking care of my personal life responsibilities, and I’m keeping the conversation open as well,” he said.Rodgers went on to shed light on what those responsibilities include: a serious relationship, commitments outside the gridiron, and close friends fighting through life’s toughest battles. "I have off-the-field stuff going on that requires my attention. I have personal commitments I have made. I have a couple of people in my inner, inner circle who are battling some difficult stuff. So, I have a lot of things that are taking my attention," Rodgers added.What makes this situation all the more unique is that retirement hasn't been officially announced — nor has his next move. Pittsburgh remains hopeful, and fans continue to refresh their feeds for updates. But Rodgers’ priorities are clear: life comes first.Whatever his decision may be, it’s hard not to respect the pause. Rodgers isn’t just evaluating teams or playbooks — he’s navigating the human side of life, one that doesn’t always align with the NFL calendar.So for now, the league waits. And while the football world buzzes with anticipation, Rodgers is quietly tending to the things that matter most — reminding us that sometimes, even legends need time to just be human.Also Read: Aaron Rodgers believes biological females deserve fair play, opposes transgender women in women’s sports