Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers are forever connected.
Almost two years since the Packers traded Rodgers to the New York Jets, his future continues to impact his former team.
As he did for several years in Green Bay, Rodgers has left Jets fans guessing what's next. He could retire, return to the Jets, or even play for a new team in 2025. It's not entirely his decision, as the Jets' new head coach-general manager combination of Aaron Glenn and Darren Mougey must choose their own quarterback path.
Bizarrely, Rodgers' future could have ripple effects that directly impact the Packers this offseason, especially regarding potential targets.
Aaron Rodgers' future could impact the Packers in three key ways
Aaron Rodgers returning to Jets could ruin hopes of a Packers-Davante Adams reunion
What if Rodgers returns to the Jets? Presumably, the team would go all-in to win now, likely ruling out a Davante Adams trade.
Adams continues to drop possible Packers hints, from posting a picture of his green and gold shoes to regularly praising his former team on the Up & Adams show. A reunion with the Packers would make sense, as Adams could become Jordan Love's top target while getting a chance to compete for a Super Bowl.
However, if Rodgers returns to New York, it seems a safe bet Adams will remain alongside him. After all, Rodgers is the reason Adams joined the Jets in the first place.
Aaron Rodgers remaining in New York could open door for Garrett Wilson trade
As one door shuts, another could open. Adams isn't the only Jets wide receiver facing an uncertain future. Rodgers returning may ensure his former Packers teammate sticks around, but the same might not be true for Garrett Wilson.
NFL Network's Ian Rapoport noted that Wilson requesting a trade is a possibility if the Jets retain Rodgers, adding that the former first-round wide receiver had become frustrated with his lack of targets.
There's no guarantee those frustrations would ease in Matt LaFleur's we-don't-want-a-WR1 offense. But it's hard to imagine the Packers trading premium draft capital for a rising star to then not help him reach his potential. Wilson could become the star wide receiver Green Bay needs.
Aaron Rodgers' landing spot could impact the Packers in 2025
What if Rodgers plays elsewhere in 2025?
There are several potential landing spots, with many believing the Minnesota Vikings would make the most sense. Would Rodgers really follow Brett Favre from Green Bay to Minnesota via New York? Imagine Rodgers and Aaron Jones playing against the Packers twice a year.
Rodgers could go from arguably the Packers' greatest quarterback to their division rival.
The Pittsburgh Steelers may need a quarterback, and Rodgers has huge respect for Mike Tomlin. The Steelers are on the Packers' 2025 schedule, with the game reportedly heading to Dublin, Ireland. Imagine the Rodgers-led Steelers playing the Love-led Packers. That would be fun.
Barring a Super Bowl run, the Packers and Jets won't meet in 2025, but that doesn't mean Rodgers won't join a team on Green Bay's upcoming schedule.