The Jets’ Decision to Part Ways with Aaron Rodgers
The New York Jets made a significant announcement on Thursday, signaling their intention to move on from quarterback Aaron Rodgers after just two seasons with the team. In a joint statement, new head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey expressed their gratitude for Rodgers’ contributions but emphasized the need to explore a new direction at the quarterback position. "Last week we met with Aaron and shared that our intention was to move in a different direction at quarterback," they said. "It was important to have this discussion now to provide clarity and enable each of us the proper time to plan for our respective futures. We want to thank him for the leadership, passion, and dedication he brought to the organization and wish him success moving forward."
Rodgers’ Journey with the Jets
Rodgers joined the Jets in 2023, marking a significant transition from his 18-year tenure with the Green Bay Packers. However, his first year in New York was marred by a season-ending injury. Just minutes into the opening game, Rodgers suffered a torn Achilles tendon, which sidelined him for the entire 2023 season. Despite this setback, he returned in 2024 and showed flashes of his former self, throwing for 3,897 yards with 28 touchdown passes and 11 interceptions over 17 games. Rodgers’ resilience and continued performance, especially at the age of 41, were noteworthy, but the organization ultimately decided that a change was necessary to advance their goals.
The Stipulations and the Point of Friction
According to The Athletic’s Diana Russini, the Jets had several stipulations for Rodgers if they were to continue their partnership into 2025. One of these stipulations was that Rodgers attend all mandatory practices. This might seem like a standard requirement, but Rodgers had a history of missing practices. Last summer, he skipped a pair of minicamp practices while on vacation in Egypt. While the previous leadership was more lenient, Glenn and Mougey were not willing to overlook such absences. The more significant issue, however, was the Jets’ demand that Rodgers cease all outside media appearances during the season, particularly his regular spot on ESPN’s "The Pat McAfee Show." Rodgers, who reportedly earns over $1 million annually for his appearances on the show, has been a regular guest for years. These appearances have often generated controversy, with Rodgers making headlines for sharing conspiracy theories and even implying that late-night TV host Jimmy Kimmel had ties to convicted child sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein, a claim that Disney had to vehemently deny.
The Implications for the Jets
The Jets’ decision to part ways with Rodgers has several implications for the team. One of the most significant is the impact on Davante Adams, Rodgers’ favorite receiver, who was traded to the Jets in October. Adams’ 2025 salary-cap number stands at $38.3 million, making it financially challenging for the Jets to retain him, especially without Rodgers. Adams would likely need to agree to a new deal to stay in New York, a scenario that now seems less likely given the quarterback’s departure. The Jets currently hold the No. 7 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, a position that could allow them to draft a new quarterback or explore the free agent market for a suitable replacement.
Rodgers’ Future
Rodgers has said he will take time to decide whether he wants to play in 2025 or retire. Given that he does not have any guaranteed money left on his deal and is due $37.5 million in 2025, it is likely that he will be released after June 1, a move that would help the Jets’ salary cap situation. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport suggests that a post-June 1 cut is the most probable scenario. Rodgers’ decision will also affect the free agent market, as a still-capable quarterback of his caliber could attract interest from multiple teams. Whether he chooses to continue his career or step away from the game, Rodgers’ impact on the NFL over the past two decades is undeniable.
A New Chapter for the Jets
As the Jets look to the future, the decision to move on from Rodgers marks the beginning of a new era for the franchise. With a high draft pick and the flexibility to explore the free agent market, the team has the opportunity to build a foundation for sustained success. The upcoming months will be crucial as the Jets aim to identify and secure a quarterback who aligns with their vision and can lead them to their ultimate goal. While the departure of a player of Rodgers’ caliber is significant, it also opens the door to new possibilities and a fresh start for the organization.
