Packers: Why trading Aaron Rodgers to Jets makes so much sense
The Green Bay Packers could trade star quarterback Aaron Rodgers to the New York Jets, and it would make so much sense for everyone involved.
According to ESPN’s Dan Graziano, both the Packers and Rodgers have spoken with the Jets this week about a potential trade.
While that doesn’t guarantee a deal will get over the line, it’s a significant development. It shows that Rodgers is at least open to the possibility, while the Packers are also willing to move on from the four-time MVP.
If the Packers and Jets agree to a deal, it could be a win-win for everyone.
Why trading Aaron Rodgers to Jets makes sense for Packers
Aaron Rodgers is a four-time NFL MVP and a former Super Bowl MVP. He is one of the greatest quarterbacks to ever play the game. So why would trading him make any sense for Green Bay?
There are a few reasons.
The first is the team’s current situation. With limited cap space and a team that just went 8-9, Green Bay isn’t even guaranteed to make the playoffs and is far from being considered serious Super Bowl contenders.
Without much cap space, going all-in with Rodgers would be challenging.
Then there is the contract. Moving on would leave Green Bay with a significant dead cap hit in 2023, but the team could have his contract off the books next year.
And, of course, there is Jordan Love. The quarterback the Packers traded up to draft in the first round. After three years of learning and developing his game, it’s time to give him an opportunity.
The Packers aren’t ready to compete with Rodgers given their cap situation. Turn the page, bring back draft picks, and start a new era with Jordan Love.
Why trade would make sense for Aaron Rodgers and Jets
If Aaron Rodgers is going to play somewhere other than in Green Bay, it needs to make sense for him. Entering his age-40 season, Rodgers needs to play for a contender. Somewhere he can win a second Super Bowl.
The New York Jets give him that opportunity.
New York’s defense ranked fourth in the NFL this past season and featured three All-Pros in Quinnen Williams, C.J. Mosley, and Sauce Gardner.
Gardner was named the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, while the Jets also had the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, wide receiver Garrett Wilson.
What the Jets desperately need is a quarterback.
Picking 13th in the draft, moving up to land one of the top passers won’t be easy. It would be expensive.
Trading for Rodgers would instantly make the Jets contenders in the AFC.
With a top-five defense and an offense featuring young stars like Garrett Wilson and Breece Hall, adding a four-time MVP quarterback could be exactly what the Jets need to make a run.