Aaron Rodgers is facing speculation about his retirement after the Pittsburgh Steelers’ stunning playoff elimination by the Houston Texans on Monday night in Pittsburgh. The focus keyword, John Cena retirement comparison, came into play as fans drew similarities between Rodgers’ possible NFL exit and the WWE star’s memorable final match moment.
Pittsburgh’s Playoff Hopes End in Disappointment
Rodgers and the Steelers took on the Houston Texans in a crucial playoff matchup that ended in a lopsided 30-6 defeat for Pittsburgh. The Texans advanced to the next round of the playoffs, leaving Steelers fans and analysts questioning the future of Rodgers as their quarterback.
The loss was compounded by a dramatic ending, with Rodgers throwing an interception that Texans safety Calen Bullock returned for a touchdown. This final play highlighted the difficulties faced by the Steelers’ offense and intensified speculation about whether this would be Rodgers’ last NFL game.
Social Media Unleashes John Cena Comparisons
In the aftermath of the loss, fans took to social media to draw comparisons between Rodgers’ potential retirement and John Cena’s retirement match, specifically referencing Cena smiling as he tapped out to Gunther. One meme capturing this sentiment gained traction online:
“How the Texans defense had Aaron Rodgers pic.twitter.com/YNUDw5wzu8″— Hater Report (@HaterReport_) January 13, 2026
Online reactions quickly circulated video clips and images that likened Rodgers’ intercepted throw to moments from Cena’s wrestling career, amplifying the emotional weight of the Steelers’ loss.
Rodgers Speaks on Uncertain Future
Questions about the future of both Rodgers and Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin have grown in recent weeks, especially following such a decisive playoff exit. Rodgers, when asked about his plans, emphasized his unwillingness to make a hasty decision under emotional strain:
“I’m not going to make any emotional decisions at this point,”
Rodgers told the media after the game.
“Such a fun year. A lot of adversity, but a lot of fun. Been a great year overall in my life in the last year, and this is a really good part of that, coming here and being a part of this team. So it’s disappointing to be sitting here with the season over.”
— Aaron Rodgers, quarterback
While Rodgers processed the abrupt end to the Steelers’ season, the John Cena retirement comparison only intensified conversations about how legendary players exit their respective sports.
Fans Highlight the Final Play
Another viral moment underlined the scrutiny Rodgers faces, as fans revisited his last throw:
“Aaron Rodgers last throw ever was a pick six ? pic.twitter.com/bkDe1T5Tw0″— PropKitchen ?‍? (@PropKitchen) January 13, 2026
The replay of the interception returned for a touchdown, combined with the online discourse, prodded further debate about Rodgers’ legacy and what his next steps might be.
What Comes Next for Rodgers and the Steelers?
The 2026 playoff defeat has left both the team and their fans in a state of uncertainty, with attention focused on whether Aaron Rodgers will return or choose to retire from the NFL. The intense reaction and ongoing comparisons to John Cena’s retirement match have added a layer of public spectacle, ensuring that any announcement from Rodgers will be followed closely by fans, the Steelers organization, and the wider sports community.
How the Texans defense had Aaron Rodgers pic.twitter.com/YNUDw5wzu8
— Hater Report (@HaterReport_) January 13, 2026
Aaron Rodgers last throw ever was a pick six đź’” pic.twitter.com/bkDe1T5Tw0
— PropKitchen 🧑‍🍳 (@PropKitchen) January 13, 2026
