The New York Jets’ Decision to Move On from Aaron Rodgers

The NFL offseason is always a period of significant change, and for the New York Jets, this year is no exception. According to reports from CBS Sports NFL insider Jonathan Jones, the Jets are set to part ways with quarterback Aaron Rodgers, bringing an end to a relationship that began with high hopes just a year ago. While Rodgers has yet to officially decide whether he will return for a 21st NFL season, the Jets’ decision to move on opens the door for the legendary quarterback to explore other opportunities once the new league year begins in March.

A Fresh Start in New York

The Jets’ move to part with Rodgers comes on the heels of a major organizational overhaul. In January, the team hired a new head coach, Aaron Glenn, and general manager, Darren Mougey, signaling a desire to reset the franchise’s trajectory. While Rodgers was a key figure in the Jets’ plans as recently as last season, the new leadership appears eager to chart a different course. During their introductory press conference, both Glenn and Mougey praised Rodgers but notably stopped short of committing to his return. The writing was on the wall, and last week, the organization reportedly informed Rodgers of their decision to go in a new direction.

The Jets’ choice to move on from Rodgers is not entirely surprising. After trading for the four-time NFL MVP in April 2023, the team hoped he could help end a playoff drought that now stands at 14 years—the longest active streak of postseason futility in the four major North American professional sports leagues. However, the partnership did not yield the desired results. In 2024, despite Rodgers starting all 17 games and putting together a statistically solid season, the Jets limped to a 5-12 finish, tied for last in the AFC East. The offense, in particular, struggled to find consistency, finishing 24th in total yards per game (310.3) and points per game (19.9).

Aaron Rodgers’ 2024 Season: A Mixed Bag

While Rodgers’ 2024 campaign was far from a disaster, it was not the season many in Jets Nation had envisioned when the trade was made. After missing nearly all of the 2023 season due to an Achilles injury, Rodgers bounced back to start every game in 2024, a testament to his enduring durability. He completed 63% of his passes for 3,897 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions—solid numbers by any measure, though slightly below his career standards. Rodgers’ performance was highlighted by a memorable season-ending 32-20 victory over the Miami Dolphins, during which he threw four touchdown passes, bringing his career total to 503 and further cementing his Hall of Fame credentials.

Despite these individual accomplishments, the Jets’ offense often sputtered, particularly in the red zone, where the team frequently settled for field goals instead of touchdowns. The inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities was a recurring theme throughout the season, and it showed in the standings. The Jets lost seven games by six points or fewer, underscoring the fine line between success and failure in the NFL. While Rodgers’ presence certainly elevated the team compared to previous seasons, it was not enough to overcome the broader issues plaguing the offense.

The Trade That Brought Rodgers to New York

The Jets’ acquisition of Aaron Rodgers in April 2023 was a move that generated both excitement and skepticism. After weeks of negotiations, the Jets agreed to send the Green Bay Packers a package that included their first-round pick (No. 13 overall) and a second-round pick, among other draft capital, in exchange for Rodgers, a first-round pick (No. 15 overall), and a fifth-round pick. The deal was widely seen as a bold gamble, with the Jets betting that Rodgers’ Decline was still far off and that he could lead the franchise to its first playoff appearance since 2010.

Initially, those hopes seemed plausible. Rodgers’ arrival was expected to inject life into a franchise that had long struggled at the quarterback position. However, the 2023 season was derailed almost immediately when Rodgers suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in Week 1. The Jets limped to a 7-10 finish, and while Rodgers’ return in 2024 brought renewed optimism, the results were ultimately disappointing. The Jets’ inability to build a competitive roster around Rodgers—combined with the emergence of younger, cheaper quarterback talent across the league—made the decision to move on feel inevitable.

The Road Ahead for the Jets

With Rodgers’ tenure in New York coming to an end, the Jets now face a familiar challenge: finding a quarterback capable of leading the team back to relevance. Currently, the only quarterbacks on the roster are 35-year-old journeyman Tyrod Taylor and Jordan Travis, a 2024 fifth-round pick who missed his entire rookie season due to injury. Neither player figures to be the long-term solution, leaving the Jets’ new regime to decide how to address the position this offseason.

The possibilities are numerous. The Jets could pursue a veteran quarterback via free agency or trade, though the options may be limited. They could also look to the NFL Draft, where they hold the fourth overall pick and are in prime position to select one of this year’s top quarterback prospects.-owner Woody Johnson has made it clear that he will defer to Glenn and Mougey on personnel decisions, and the pair will have ample resources at their disposal to shape the roster in their image. For now, the Jets’ focus will be on evaluating every aspect of the team and identifying the pieces needed to build a sustainable winner.

The Legacy of Aaron Rodgers in New York

Aaron Rodgers’ time with the Jets was brief but memorable. While his tenure did not result in the playoff berth many had hoped for, his presence undeniably elevated the franchise during his time on the field. Rodgers’ work ethic, leadership, and ability to perform under pressure set a standard for his teammates, and his on-field accomplishments—particularly his 500th career touchdown pass—added to a legacy that will one day land him in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

For Rodgers, the future remains uncertain. At 39 years old and nearing the end of his career, he must decide whether to return for a 21st season and, if so, where he wants to play. While his destination is unknown, his impact on the game is undeniable. For the Jets, the focus is on the future. With a new coaching staff and a clean slate, the franchise has an opportunity to build a team that can compete for years to come. The road ahead will not be easy, but the potential is there. Only time will tell if the Jets can capitalize on it.