As the end of another disappointing New York Jets season draws near, QB Aaron Rodgers needs to think about what he wants to do.
Rodgers and the Jets have had a rough season. They are 4-10 and are having trouble on both sides of the ball. The 41-year-old quarterback was asked on Wednesday if the way he’s been playing has made him think about next year. He said that he would think about his football future after the season and decide “whether or not I want to play.”
“I’m going to take some time after the year unless I get released right away,” he said. “But I’ll take some time, get away from it either way.”
Last year, Rodgers only played four snaps before getting hurt. This year, he has started all 14 games. The four-time MVP of the league has a 62.5% completion rate, 23 touchdowns, and eight picks.
Rodgers has thought about retiring before. During the 2023 NFL offseason, the veteran quarterback reportedly went to a dark retreat to think about his football future and whether he would stay with the Green Bay Packers or hang up his cleats. After a month, Rodgers asked to be traded to the Jets.
Woody Johnson, the owner of the team, fired head coach Robert Saleh in October and general manager Joe Douglas in November. Johnson is also said to have wanted Rodgers to be benched after the loss to the Denver Broncos in Week 4.
New York was finally out of the playoffs on December 8 when they lost to the Miami Dolphins in overtime.
Rodgers has had some good times in the last few weeks: With help from his best receiver, Davante Adams, the quarterback led the Jets to a 32-25 win over the Jaguars on Sunday. Adams and Rodgers completed nine passes for 198 yards and two scores. Adams’ touchdown from 71 yards out was one of Rodgers’ few big plays this season.
This season, New York has three more games. Following that, Rodgers might have to return to the darkness to make his next choice.
Joann Hinds has been covering U.S. local news for three years, bringing stories that matter to life with accuracy and heart. Known for his keen eye for detail and a passion for community-focused reporting, Joann is dedicated to highlighting the people and events shaping everyday lives. His work reflects a deep commitment to honest and impactful journalism.