Will Aaron Rodgers hang up his cleats? This is the question lurking around Pittsburgh Steelers fans. The 42-year-old has been silent on his return since the Wild Card loss. However, the NFL Insider show had some insight, revealing major updates on the situation.

“Rodgers has not yet informed the Steelers whether he will return for 22nd NFL season,” reported Tom Pelissero and Mike Garafolo from The Insiders. “From my understanding, the odds are increasing. I am told Rodgers has spoken several times with new Steelers coach Mike McCarthy, who, of course, helped Rodgers develop into a four-time MVP and a Super Bowl winner in Green Bay. Rodgers has also spoken with wide receiver D.K. Metcalf, who wants Rodgers back at age 42. The plan is for Rodgers to take a little bit more time, and everyone hopes comes to a decision prior to the start of free agency in mid-March.”

Rodgers may not be in his best shape, but he still produced a memorable season for the Steelers. The veteran quarterback scored 24 passing touchdowns and threw only 7 interceptions. Producing a 65% pass completion rate further highlighted the fact that age is just a number for him

Considering his end may be near, he is willing to come back for one last season. It will give him a chance to reunite with McCarthy. Moreover, he and Metcalf had formed a great partnership, with the latter excelling with the quarterback in the heart of the offense. Being an experienced QB, his throws always found a way to Metcalf’s reliable hands.

McCarthy has mentioned that he wants Rodgers back in his squad. He has given the future Hall of Fame time to consider his status. Unfortunately, his 1-year-contract, valued at $13.65 million, will be up by mid-March. So, the decision needs to come before that, especially since Rodgers may also head for Minnesota.

Aaron Rodgers gets a sales pitch from the Minnesota Vikings

With Rodgers still considering his decision to return to the Steel City, a former teammate approached him with a new offer. The Vikings RB Aaron Jones pitched him the idea of coming to Minnesota.

“I like him in Minnesota,” Jones said on Nightcap from Super Bowl Radio Row on Thursday. “That’s my dog. What he brings to a locker room, that leadership, it’s a standard. If you ain’t in your playbook, oh, you ain’t seeing the field–he’s going to test you.”

The Vikings have the likes of All-Pro Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and Jones. They could easily pair up with Rodgers, bringing out the best of them. Moreover, the quarterback is also familiar with HC Kevin O’Connell’s game. Also, there is a quarterback issue in Minnesota that could be answered with Rodgers’ addition.

J.J. McCarthy played only 10 games this season, recording only six wins. Adding salt to the wound, he had a minus-0.34 EPA per dropback, a 7.5 percent turnover-worthy play rate, resulting in a 35.7 QBR. McCarthy’s mistakes seem to be more consistent than his successes. While scoring 11 passing touchdowns, he threw for 12 interceptions. During the 22-6 loss against the Falcons, he was sacked a staggering six times. Even WR Justin Jefferson also hinted that QB McCarthy was the reason behind his low stats.

Things seem to be pretty interesting around Rodgers. Despite being in his 40s, franchises still prefer to have him in their squad. Now, it remains to be seen which way the tide shifts for Aaron Rodgers. Will he be returning to the Steel City, or a new chapter awaits him in Minnesota? A few days’ wait and all will be answered.