Aaron Rodgers’ underwhelming two-year period with the New York Jets has officially come to an end, leaving the team still seeking its elusive Super Bowl title. On Thursday, the Jets communicated their decision to the veteran quarterback, stating that they would proceed without him for the upcoming season.
Although Rodgers has not publicly declared whether he will return for a 21st season in the NFL, the Jets, now under new general manager Darren Mougey and head coach Aaron Glenn, have made it clear that a comeback in New York is off the table. In a joint statement, Mougey and Glenn revealed that they met with Rodgers last week to convey their plans to explore new options at quarterback. “It was critical to have this conversation now to provide clarity and enable each of us the proper time to plan for our respective futures,” the statement said. “We want to extend our gratitude to him for the leadership, commitment, and passion he brought to the organization and wish him well in his future endeavors.”
Rodgers, a four-time MVP and one of the NFL’s top quarterbacks, has one year left on his contract, which is worth $37.5 million but is non-guaranteed. If the Jets were to release him, they would have to absorb a $49 million dead money charge next season unless they can designate him as a post-June 1 cut, allowing them to spread that financial hit across two years. Should the Jets choose that route, Rodgers would remain on the roster, incurring a $23.5 million salary cap charge, until the new NFL league year begins on March 12.
In April 2023, Rodgers was traded to the Jets after an 18-season career with the Green Bay Packers, with hopes of helping New York end its long Super Bowl drought that stretches back to the iconic days of Joe Namath in the 1968 season. During his introductory press conference, Rodgers remarked on how the team’s only Vince Lombardi Trophy stood prominently in the lobby, stating it looked “lonely.” Expectations were high that he would transform the team’s fortunes, but reality did not align with those hopes.
Rodgers’ first season was cut short just four snaps into his debut due to a torn left Achilles tendon, a significant injury that derailed the Jets’ Super Bowl aspirations. Although he returned to the field this past season, he and the offensive unit struggled to find their rhythm, finishing the season with a disappointing 5-12 record. Rodgers’ time with the Jets concluded with just six wins in 18 starts, including the match in which he sustained his injury.
Owner Woody Johnson expressed his appreciation for Rodgers, stating, “I personally want to thank Aaron for his time with the New York Jets. His arrival was met with enthusiasm, and I am grateful he chose to continue his Hall of Fame career with us.” Johnson commended Rodgers for embracing the team culture and the city, noting, “That is what I will remember most about his time here. He will always be welcome, and I wish him only the best in his future endeavors.”
Rodgers’ impressive 28 touchdown passes and 3,897 passing yards recorded during his tenure place him third in the Jets’ single-season records. Yet, his mobility was hampered early in his return, and he faced recurrent leg injuries, including a notable hamstring strain. The Jets’ offense struggled to deliver results, leading to the departure of general manager Joe Douglas and head coach Robert Saleh during the season.
In what turned out to be his final performance in a Jets uniform, Rodgers enjoyed a standout game against Miami on January 5, tossing a season-high four touchdown passes. This moment served as a nostalgic reminder of the potential the Jets had with him at the helm.
Rodgers’ time in New York was not without its share of controversies. He drew attention last offseason by skipping mandatory minicamp, opting instead for a trip to Egypt while recuperating from his injury. He was also highlighted as a potential vice presidential candidate by Robert Kennedy Jr. during his political campaign. However, Rodgers maintained that his focus remained firmly on football and his comeback efforts, which included the Jets’ acquisition of his close friend and former teammate Davante Adams.
Now, as the franchise moves forward in search of a new quarterback, Rodgers is left to contemplate his options. He indicated that he would take a mental break before making any decisions regarding his future in professional football.
Fox Sports reported last weekend that Rodgers met with the Jets in New Jersey to discuss the team’s direction. Currently, Tyrod Taylor, a seasoned veteran, is still part of the roster alongside Jordan Travis, who spent his rookie season on the non-football injury list, and Adrian Martinez, who was signed to a reserve-future contract last month. Nevertheless, the Jets are anticipated to explore free agency next month for a potential replacement for Rodgers and also hold the No. 7 overall pick in the upcoming draft.
Rodgers has impressive career stats, tallying 503 regular-season touchdown passes, which rank fifth in football history and place him among legends like Tom Brady, Drew Brees, Peyton Manning, and Brett Favre. His 62,952 passing yards put him seventh in NFL history. He led the Packers to their last Super Bowl victory during the 2010 season but hasn’t been back to the championship game since, despite reaching the NFC Championship four additional times.
If he opts to continue his career, it is likely that Rodgers would seek to join a team that is in contention for a championship, providing him with one final opportunity to capture another title.
