Aaron Rodgers is considering staying with the New York Jets. Despite the Jets’ uncertain future and draft plans, he is open to supporting a new quarterback.
Aaron Rodgers, the legendary quarterback, was surprised in 2020 when the Green Bay Packers drafted Jordan Love as his potential successor. Now he could face a similar fate with the New York Jets. Rodgers himself is open to this possibility – provided he continues to play.
While Rodgers stated Wednesday that he is still undecided about his future, he stressed that the Jets’ plans will not impact his decision. He’s not opposed to the idea of promoting a highly drafted quarterback.
“When they drafted Jordan, I felt like I was one bad streak away from being benched — and I won the MVP a few years later, that’s the way the league is,” Rodgers said after practice. “If [die Jets] want me back and they draft a player, I would mentor him with full dedication when I play and do my best to keep him on the bench.”
Rodgers was 36 years old when the Packers drafted Love in the first round, and the future Hall of Famer won his third and fourth MVP titles in 2020 and 2021. He was replaced by Love in 2023.
This time the circumstances are different: Rodgers is 41, is having a poor year by his standards and his future is uncertain. The Jets are in transition and Rodgers insists he will not allow himself to be pressured. “I’ll take my time after the season – unless I’m released immediately – but I’ll still take my time to decide if I want to play,” he said. “But I will take time to distance myself, no matter what.”
Jets draft prospects
The Jets (4-10), who face the Los Angeles Rams (8-6) at MetLife Stadium, could have two top-40 draft picks and be in position to sign a quarterback. Rodgers, Tyrod Taylor (35) and rookie Jordan Travis (on the non-football injury list) are under contract for 2025, but none are considered long-term solutions.
If Rodgers wants to continue playing, the Jets would be his first choice. “I mean, there’s a lot of reasons why this would be a great opportunity, but I’ll see what happens,” Rodgers said. “There are still a lot of things that need to happen. They need to hire a GM, hire a head coach, and then whether I’m part of the conversations or whether they move on. Whatever happens, I will take time and think about my future.”
Financial considerations
Rodgers’ cap burden for 2025 is not excessive at $23.5 million, but he is entitled to an option bonus of $35 million. He is prepared to forego his salary again; As early as 2023, he voluntarily accepted a cut of $34 million. “Yes, I’m open to anything,” he said.
Should the Jets release or trade Rodgers, they would face a $49 million cap hit in 2025 – unless they spread it out over two years by designating him a June 1 cut. Should he return next season under his existing contract, the dead cap burden would increase to $63 million in 2026.
There is a feeling within the organization that Rodgers will not return, but his recent performances could make the decision for new leaders difficult. Over the past two games, he has thrown for 628 yards, four touchdowns and no interceptions, with a Total QBR of 76.8 – sixth-best in the league.
“It’s definitely closer to the Aaron Rodgers we all know and expect him to be, but I think he still has a way to go to get back to being the MVP Rodgers I know.” said wide receiver Allen Lazard. “He’s been phenomenal these last two games, but I know he can be even better.”
