The Aaron Rodgers era in New York may be nearing its conclusion.
After two turbulent seasons with the Jets, the 40-year-old quarterback is now considered a “long shot” to return to the team in 2025, according to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport, who reported the news Sunday on NFL GameDay Morning.
Rodgers’ potential departure would mark the end of an era defined by high expectations and unmet aspirations. His exit would complete the dismantling of the trio that led the Jets into the 2024 season. Head coach Robert Saleh was fired on October 5, followed by general manager Joe Douglas on November 19, leaving Rodgers as the last remaining piece of what was once seen as the team’s foundation for success.
The future Hall of Famer has one year remaining on his current contract with New York, but with no guaranteed money left on the table and a $35 million option bonus looming, the Jets face a critical decision. Bringing Rodgers back would require both financial commitment and confidence in his ability to return to form after a challenging season. However, with organizational uncertainty and a fresh leadership group on the horizon, a mutual parting of ways seems increasingly plausible.
“Those conversations will happen with the new power brokers after the year,” Rapoport said. “But that is my understanding of where it stands right now.”
The Jets have already initiated their search for a new general manager and head coach, with owner Woody Johnson spearheading the effort. Former Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum, former Vikings GM Rick Spielman, and consulting group The 33rd Team are assisting in identifying and vetting candidates. How Aaron Rodgers fits into these plans remains a significant question.
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Rodgers’ performance this season hasn’t lived up to the sky-high expectations that followed his arrival. Since returning from a torn Achilles, he has completed 63.4% of his passes for 2,442 yards, 17 touchdowns, and seven interceptions. Despite flashes of brilliance, injuries and diminished mobility have left Rodgers looking like a shadow of his former self, contributing to the Jets’ disappointing 3-8 record.
Interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich recently confirmed that the team has no plans to shut Rodgers down for the remainder of the season, despite his struggles. Ulbrich’s statement suggests the organization remains committed to allowing Rodgers to lead the offense for the remainder of 2024, even as their playoff hopes dwindle.
Last Sunday, Rapoport emphasized that Rodgers’ future with the team is contingent on his performance in the final stretch of the season, starting with a critical matchup against Seattle. For Rodgers, playing better isn’t just about salvaging the season—it could determine whether he remains a Jet in 2025.
While his physical limitations have been evident, Rodgers has maintained an optimistic outlook about his future. Speaking to the media this week, he acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding his career but expressed a clear preference for staying in New York if he continues to play.
“I think at this point I’m open to everything and attached to nothing,” Rodgers said. “It’s a good place to be.” His comments reflect both a pragmatic and philosophical approach, leaving the door open for various possibilities while signaling his willingness to adapt to whatever the future holds.
Despite the turmoil, Rodgers remains a respected figure in the locker room, and his influence could play a role in the Jets’ decision-making process during their leadership transition. However, with no guaranteed financial obligations and a potentially massive cap hit looming, the franchise must weigh whether keeping Rodgers aligns with their long-term vision.
Rodgers’ legacy in New York, though brief, is already one of intrigue. His arrival was meant to signal a new era of Jets football—one defined by veteran leadership and playoff contention. Instead, injuries and organizational instability have clouded that vision, leaving fans and analysts alike wondering if Rodgers’ stint with the Jets will end as abruptly as it began.
As the 2024 season winds down, all eyes will be on Rodgers and the Jets’ front office. Whether his journey with Gang Green continues into 2025 or concludes at season’s end, one thing is clear: the decisions made in the coming months will shape the future of the franchise and the legacy of one of the NFL’s most iconic quarterbacks.
