If Aaron Rodgers decides to return for the 2025 season, his preference is clear—he wants it to be with the New York Jets. The future Hall of Fame quarterback addressed his future during his weekly appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show” on Tuesday.
Rodgers shared his thoughts on whether he would continue playing, stating, “I don’t even know if I want to play yet, but New York would be my first option.”
The Jets are currently 3-8 in Rodgers’ second season with the team, and the veteran quarterback acknowledged that several factors will influence his decision.
“When you’re 40 going on 41, you’re obviously at the end of your career,” Rodgers said. “So, obviously, if it’s New York, they have to want me to be here, and then there’s a new GM, new staff—all have to want me to be with the Jets. And then body-wise, I have to see how I’m feeling and if I want to sign up to go back to the grind.”
Rodgers’ comments come at a challenging time for the Jets, who have been dealing with a turbulent month. The team recently fired general manager Joe Douglas, leading to widespread speculation about Rodgers’ future with the franchise.
The Super Bowl-winning quarterback, who will celebrate his 41st birthday next week, has previously expressed interest in continuing his career. Earlier this month, he stated, “I think so, yeah,” when asked if he plans to play next season.
In addition to searching for a new general manager, the Jets are also in the market for a new head coach after firing Robert Saleh in October following a 2-3 start to the season. The team has faced an uphill battle ever since.
Rodgers joined the Jets in April 2023 to much fanfare, as long-suffering Jets fans began dreaming of a potential Super Bowl run with the future Hall of Famer leading the charge. However, those dreams were quickly dashed just four plays into the season opener in September 2023, when Rodgers suffered a season-ending Achilles injury.
Despite the setback, the Jets managed to reignite their playoff hopes in 2024 with Rodgers back in action.
However, the team has struggled to live up to expectations, even with a talented roster that now includes Davante Adams, Rodgers’ longtime friend and star wide receiver. The chemistry between Rodgers and Adams gave fans hope, but the Jets have struggled to find consistency on the field.
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Adding to the team’s difficulties, Rodgers has been dealing with several injuries throughout the season, including issues with his ankle, hamstring, and knee. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Rodgers has resisted getting scans done to determine the severity of his injuries, not wanting to risk being sidelined if the results showed something serious.
After the Jets’ recent bye week, Rodgers said he is feeling better. Looking ahead to next season, he said, “If I can stay healthy the rest of the year and play the way I want to play, and everybody feels good about bringing me back, then there’s a decision to be made.”
The Jets face a tough test this Sunday as they host the surging 6-5 Seattle Seahawks. Rodgers will look to lead his team to a much-needed victory, and his performance over the remaining games could help determine whether he stays in New York for another season.
For now, Rodgers is focused on finishing the year strong and assessing his options when the time comes.
The decision to return to the Jets will depend on many factors, including his health, the direction of the franchise under new leadership, and his own desire to continue playing at a high level. Regardless of what happens, the coming months will be crucial for both Rodgers and the Jets as they navigate an uncertain future together.
