Aaron Rodgers made a strong push to convince the New York Jets to keep him for one or two more seasons before the team ultimately decided to part ways with the veteran quarterback, as reported by Steve Helling and Ryan Dunleavy of the New York Post.
In multiple discussions last week, Rodgers actively sought to negotiate a new contract, aiming to retire “on top” after a successful career.
On Thursday, the Jets confirmed that Rodgers would not be returning for the upcoming season. The team did not provide a specific reason for this decision, and Rodgers has yet to publicly comment on the matter.
This offseason, the Jets brought in Aaron Glenn as their new head coach and Darren Mougey as general manager. Team owner Woody Johnson mentioned that the future of the quarterback position would be determined by these two new leaders.
Rodgers joined the Jets on a three-year deal in 2023 but suffered a season-ending Achilles injury just four snaps into his first game. In the 2024 season, he threw for 3,897 yards and 28 touchdowns, but the team’s performance resulted in a disappointing 5-12 record.
If the Jets decide to release Rodgers after June 1, they would incur a hefty $49 million in dead money, according to Over the Cap. Reports indicate that the team is exploring options for a veteran quarterback to fill this vacancy, as noted by ESPN’s Rich Cimini. As of now, the Jets have $16.8 million in cap space for the 2025 season.
Additionally, the Jets hold the unfortunate record of the longest active playoff drought in all major sports, having not reached the postseason in 14 years.
