Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers has emerged as one of the unexpected favorites to win the U.S. presidency in 2028, according to a surprising list released by a popular betting website. Rodgers, who has always been known for his bold personality both on and off the football field, now finds himself in the political spotlight as bookmakers are taking his potential run for office seriously.
The odds were published by Bookies.com, which has listed Rodgers as the 13th most likely candidate to win the presidency in the upcoming election.
With +3000 odds, the website places Rodgers as a long-shot contender, but still within the realm of possibility, giving him an implied probability of 3.2 percent to claim the highest office as an Independent.
The release of this list has taken many by surprise, highlighting how unconventional choices are resonating in today’s political climate.
Rodgers’ connection to politics isn’t entirely baseless. The veteran quarterback has a close relationship with 2024 presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who even went so far as to approach Rodgers to be his vice-presidential running mate.
As reported by the New York Times, Kennedy’s proposal to Rodgers was serious enough to make headlines. The offer from the 70-year-old Kennedy Jr. caught Rodgers off guard, but also speaks to the NFL star’s influence and status beyond just the football field.
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In an interview with Tucker Carlson, Rodgers admitted his surprise at being approached by Kennedy Jr., but he did take time to consider the offer. “Oh yeah, I thought about it,” Rodgers revealed during the interview. “I definitely thought about it because I love Bobby, and I just wanted to hear what he had to say about it.”
Ultimately, Rodgers turned down the opportunity, suggesting that his passion for football remained stronger than any political ambition. “There were really two options,” Rodgers said during a conversation with reporters from the Jets’ facility. “It was retire and be his VP or keep playing. And I wanted to keep playing.”
Kennedy Jr. eventually selected Nicole Shanahan as his vice-presidential candidate before withdrawing from the race and endorsing Donald Trump. Trump went on to defeat Kamala Harris in the 2024 election, marking a significant political shift.
As a result, the list of favorites for the 2028 election is already generating speculation, with notable figures from both traditional and non-traditional backgrounds making the cut.
Leading the list of likely candidates for 2028 is incoming Vice President JD Vance, who tops the odds at +450. Vance is followed closely by California Governor Gavin Newsom, a prominent Democratic figure, who comes in at +575. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who remains a key Republican leader, is listed at +700.
Meanwhile, former First Lady Michelle Obama is given +950 odds, indicating her continued popularity despite not having previously sought office herself. Rounding out the top contenders is Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro at +1000.
Vice President Kamala Harris, despite her recent electoral loss, still appears on the list with the sixth-best odds at +1200, which translates to an implied probability of 7.7 percent. The odds indicate a crowded and diverse field of potential candidates, reflecting the dynamic nature of modern American politics.
Aaron Rodgers’ unexpected appearance among the potential 2028 presidential candidates serves as a testament to his broader appeal and influence. Though Rodgers ultimately chose to continue his football career rather than venture into politics, the fact that he was even considered for such a high-profile role underscores his charisma and connection with the public.
His willingness to engage in discussions with Kennedy Jr. and his thoughtful consideration of the offer demonstrate a genuine curiosity about the world beyond football, one that could potentially lead to future endeavors off the field.
For now, Rodgers remains focused on his role as quarterback for the New York Jets, but his presence on the list of potential presidential candidates hints at the unpredictable nature of both his career and the evolving political landscape.
Whether or not Rodgers will ever make a serious move toward public office remains to be seen, but the idea alone has certainly captured the imagination of fans and political observers alike.
