Brief

McCarthy apologises after profanity‑filled exchange with Rodgers on Thursday Night Football

The Steelers' loss to Cleveland featured a heated sideline argument that was captured on live broadcast.

By Felo News Desk · Published Fri, 02 Oct 2026 23:50:44 GMT

Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy expressed regret after a profanity‑laden exchange with quarterback Aaron Rodgers was caught on Prime Video’s Thursday Night Football cameras during the team’s 27‑24 road defeat to the Cleveland Browns.

What happened

The incident occurred on the Steelers’ first drive of the game, a drive that began at the Cleveland 20‑yard line. Rodgers, appearing frustrated, shouted, “What the f—?” before McCarthy responded with “f— a—hole.” The exchange was audible on the broadcast. Later in the same drive, Rodgers shook his head and rolled his eyes while waiting for a play call.

What the reports add

According to the Los Angeles Times, the cameras also captured a more positive interaction after Rodgers completed a 1‑yard sneak for a two‑point conversion that tied the game at 24‑24 late in the fourth quarter.

What was said

McCarthy told reporters, “I think what’s said on the field, the way I grew up in this game, usually stays on the field. That’s not the case today, I understand that. But any negative communication on my part, I wish I wouldn’t use those words.” Rodgers said the crowd noise made it hard to hear calls, adding, “It was loud, so some of the calls, it was hard to hear, for sure.”

How it came about

McCarthy coached the Green Bay Packers from 2006‑2018, where Rodgers was his starter for 11 seasons, winning a Super Bowl and four NFC championship games. Their past tension resurfaced in this season’s first meeting.

Key facts

• Mike McCarthy used profanity toward Aaron Rodgers during the Steelers' first drive against the Browns. (latimes.com)
• The exchange was captured on Thursday Night Football broadcast. (latimes.com)
• The Steelers lost to the Browns 27‑24. (latimes.com)
• McCarthy apologized for his language in the post‑game press conference. (latimes.com)
• Rodgers cited loud crowd noise as a factor in communication difficulties. (latimes.com)

Sources

• [1] latimes.com — originally reported as “Steelers coach Mike McCarthy regrets profane exchange with QB Aaron Rodgers that aired on 'TNF'”