The New York Jets announced to the world that they will have a new starting quarterback for the 2025-26 NFL season, and have decided to part ways with Aaron Rodgers. This obviously begs the question, will Aaron Rodgers play next season, and if so, where?
For everything you’ve given us the past two years, thank you 8 🤟 pic.twitter.com/JvPneWMgEI
— New York Jets (@nyjets) February 13, 2025
There are a few various options for the four-time MVP, as several teams are in need of a signal caller. The Pittsburgh Steelers and Las Vegas Raiders may not be able to grab one of the top draft picks to get a new quarterback. The Giants would be a convenient fit for Rodgers, as he would be able to mentor whoever they take in the draft, same with the Titans, who reportedly courted Rodgers' services prior to the Jets trade.
I'd be remiss if I did not mention the Minnesota Vikings to complete the cycle of Favre-Rodgers similarities
Still another option could be retirement. All signs so far point to the former Super Bowl champion making one last go of it, after getting healthy and regaining his stride towards the end of the season.
Should Rodgers decide to hang up the cleats, he would likely sign a one-day contract with the Packers, and enjoy the pomp and circumstance that comes with retirement, before being inducted into the Packers Hall of Fame, and eventually enshrinement in Canton.
What if?
Truth is often stranger than fiction, especially with Aaron Rodgers. What if he wanted to return to Green Bay as a player? The Packers have made it very clear that Jordan Love is the starting guy, and they are paying him as such. But, what if the Rodgers wanted to mentor Love as a player coach?
Backup quarterback was clearly a need for the Packers going into the season opener against Philadelphia last season. Malik Willis performed admirably in his two starts, and in relief duty against the Jaguars, but showed his limitations against the Bears in the regular season finale. Willis is also slated to be a free agent after this season, and likely could land a late round pick if traded.
The Pros
Having Aaron Rodgers around would not be the worst thing in the world, at least from a strictly football standpoint. Rodgers is coming off of a pretty decent year, and would likely be incredibly serviceable in a Joe Flacco relief role, if called upon. He is already familiar with the offense, and let's not forget the guy is a former MVP and Super Bowl champion.
https://stathead.com/tiny/beEHs
If We Are Being Honest Though...
Obviously there are a number of reasons this probably won't happen. For starters, if Aaron Rodgers is playing, he likely wants to start. The obvious drama that seems to follow him would likely be a massive deterrent as well, especially in Green Bay.
Aaron likely burned a lot of bridges, at least as a player, and the Packers are very clearly in a youth movement with this roster. However, if there is one thing we should have all learned by now, it's to never say never.