The New York Jets have reportedly informed Aaron Rodgers that they are planning to “move on” from the veteran quarterback for the upcoming 2025 NFL season. This decision comes after a year of speculation about Rodgers’ future with the team and follows a disappointing campaign for both the quarterback and the Jets as a whole. The move has been met with significant attention, as Rodgers, one of the most talented quarterbacks in NFL history, was brought in with high expectations to elevate the franchise’s fortunes.
Rodgers’ Arrival in New York: High Hopes and Expectations
Rodgers, 41, joined the Jets in 2023 following an illustrious 18-year career with the Green Bay Packers. His arrival was seen as a game-changing move for the Jets, who had been struggling at the quarterback position for years. The team was coming off a season in which their defense had performed admirably, and they hoped Rodgers could provide the offensive spark they desperately needed.
However, Rodgers’ tenure with the Jets got off to a disastrous start. In his first game with the team, he suffered an Achilles injury that sidelined him for the remainder of the 2023 season. The injury forced the Jets to rely on backup quarterbacks, and while the defense continued to play well, the offense could not find its footing without Rodgers under center.
Despite the injury, the Jets remained optimistic about Rodgers’ recovery and hoped he would return to form for the 2024 season. The team’s front office and coaching staff were aware that a fully healthy Rodgers could lead them back to relevance, but the 2024 campaign would ultimately reveal the extent of the challenges the Jets faced.
The 2024 Season: Struggles and Inconsistencies
Rodgers returned to action in 2024, but his performance was far from what many had hoped. Throughout the season, Rodgers showed flashes of his former brilliance but was often inconsistent. While he finished the season with 3,897 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, his play did not have the desired impact on the team’s overall success.
The Jets finished the 2024 season with a disappointing 5-12 record, which led to the firing of head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas. Despite having talented weapons on offense, including wide receiver Garrett Wilson and running back Breece Hall, the Jets could not generate consistent scoring, with Rodgers sometimes failing to develop the chemistry needed to fully utilize his offensive playmakers.
Rodgers’ aging body, combined with the Jets’ inability to adequately protect him, also played a major role in the team’s struggles. The offensive line, which was expected to be a strength, was often inconsistent, leading to pressure on Rodgers, who at times seemed reluctant to take risks or trust his pocket protection.
One of the most glaring issues was Rodgers’ inability to perform in clutch situations. In several close games, the Jets’ offense sputtered, and the defense, which had kept the team in games, could not carry the load indefinitely. The inconsistency at quarterback became one of the most significant factors in the Jets’ failure to compete for a playoff spot in a highly competitive AFC.
The Financial and Future Considerations
In addition to the on-field struggles, the financial implications of Rodgers’ contract played a crucial role in the Jets’ decision to part ways with him. Rodgers is slated to earn $37.5 million in 2025, a significant salary cap hit for a team that needs to make improvements across various positions.
Cutting ties with Rodgers would be financially painful for the Jets, but it would also free up much-needed cap space to address areas of weakness, particularly along the offensive line and at the wide receiver position. Given the Jets’ draft position and their cap situation, the team will now have more flexibility to improve its roster without being tied to an aging quarterback whose best years may have already passed.
Despite the Jets’ struggles, Rodgers remains one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in NFL history. However, his time in New York has led to questions about whether he can still perform at an elite level. The Jets have reportedly decided that the team needs to move forward with a new direction, even if that means parting ways with the future Hall of Famer.
What’s Next for Aaron Rodgers?
With the Jets officially moving on from Rodgers, the quarterback’s future in the NFL remains uncertain. While Rodgers has stated in the past that he would retire when he no longer felt he could play at a high level, it is unclear whether he is ready to walk away from the game.
If Rodgers decides to continue playing, there may be a limited number of teams interested in his services. At 41 years old, Rodgers is no longer viewed as an elite quarterback, and his injury history raises questions about his durability. That said, there could still be some teams in need of a veteran presence at the quarterback position, and Rodgers may find a suitor if he is willing to accept a lesser role or play on a team that is further from championship contention.
Teams like the Las Vegas Raiders, Tennessee Titans, or even the San Francisco 49ers could potentially show interest in bringing in Rodgers as a short-term solution at quarterback, particularly if they are not sold on their current options. However, the market for veteran quarterbacks has become increasingly competitive, and Rodgers may find that teams are more focused on developing younger talent than on adding an aging star.
The Jets’ Next Steps
With Rodgers no longer in their plans, the Jets will need to turn their attention to finding their next quarterback. The team holds the No. 7 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, which could provide an opportunity to select a young quarterback to build around for the future. Highly touted prospects such as Caleb Williams and Drake Maye are expected to be among the top quarterbacks available, but the Jets may also choose to explore other options through trade or free agency.
The Jets could look to a veteran quarterback who might be available, such as Kirk Cousins or Jimmy Garoppolo, both of whom have experience leading teams in the NFL. Additionally, the Jets could consider re-signing Tyrod Taylor to provide some stability at the quarterback position while they groom a young player for the future.
Whatever direction they choose, the Jets’ front office is under pressure to find the right quarterback to lead the team back to relevance. The team has a talented defense and a solid supporting cast of offensive weapons, but without consistent quarterback play, their playoff aspirations will continue to fall short.
The End of an Era in New York
Rodgers’ time with the Jets was brief but impactful. While his tenure was ultimately disappointing, his arrival was a major event in the franchise’s history, and it briefly reignited hope for a team that had been searching for a quarterback for decades. Moving on from Rodgers signifies the end of that chapter and the beginning of a new era for the Jets.
As for Rodgers, the future remains uncertain. Whether he decides to retire or continue playing, his place in NFL history is secure. His legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time is undiminished by his time in New York, and his next move will likely be scrutinized closely by fans and analysts alike.
For the Jets, the challenge now is to find the quarterback that can lead them to the promised land. Whether that means drafting a young star or signing a veteran to fill the gap, the Jets are at a critical juncture in their rebuild. Whatever happens, they will have to do it without the quarterback they once hoped could be their savior.