Aaron Rodgers’ future in football is currently uncertain as he remains preoccupied with the ongoing wildfires threatening his residence in Southern California. On “The Pat McAfee Show,” he shared that while his house in Malibu has been spared from damage, he has faced challenges like prolonged power outages. However, he expressed concern for his friends, including actor Miles Teller, who have lost their homes in what has become one of the region’s most severe natural disasters.
“I’ve been trying to safeguard my property here,” Rodgers noted. “My home is intact, but many people nearby are enduring significant losses. Friends in Palisades and Pasadena have been affected, as well as others near Runyon Canyon. It’s a challenging time for many residents.”
Rodgers, who has just wrapped up his 20th season in the NFL following the Jets’ victory over Miami, returned home after engaging in discussions with various team executives, including owner Woody Johnson and interim coach Jeff Ulbrich. Upon arriving, he described the chaotic weather conditions, sharing, “The wind was wild, and I walked into a situation with no power and a gate flying off its hinges.”
Despite the intense situation, Rodgers acknowledged having had meaningful discussions with the Jets about their future direction, even as they search for both a new general manager and head coach. He indicated he would take time to consider whether he wants to continue his football career while also assessing the organization’s interest in retaining him for a potential 21st season.
The quarterback mentioned having limited communication with the team due to the wildfires but stressed that he isn’t nearing a decision about his playing career. “I’ve told them I need some time to think it over,” he explained. “They still haven’t decided on a GM or a coach, so the next steps will depend on those choices, at which point I’ll have a conversation with whoever takes on that role. Right now, I’m focused on clearing my mind and body.”
Rodgers also offered his gratitude for the remarkable efforts of firefighters combating the ongoing blazes, pointing out that there is some hope emerging from the crisis. The fires have taken a severe toll, claiming 25 lives and destroying over 12,000 structures.
“The media has highlighted celebrities who lost their homes,” said Rodgers. “While there are wealthy areas in Palisades and Malibu that have been impacted, many ordinary Southern Californians have also lost everything. The road to recovery will be difficult for them.”
As a notable player in NFL history, holding the distinction of being the fifth player to surpass 500 career touchdown passes, Rodgers is due one year of non-guaranteed salary on his Jets contract. He is poised to receive a substantial option bonus before the next season kicks off, which would significantly impact the team’s salary cap.
Should Rodgers choose to retire or be released, the Jets could face a hefty dead money charge unless they opt to cut him after June 1, allowing them to distribute the financial ramifications over two years.
“I believe everyone understands that my decision will be influenced by the new GM, coach, and my willingness to collaborate with them,” he explained. “Whether it’s feasible for all of us to work together remains to be seen.”
Rodgers clarified that his personal circumstances in Southern California will not directly influence his decision about continuing his football career. “I’ve spent time in solitude during various retreats and meditation circles,” he reflected. “I’ve undergone deep self-reflection, which has given me valuable perspectives over the years. The current situation is heartbreaking, but it won’t alter my core outlook.”
