The Aaron Rodgers experiment with the New York Jets is turning into a financial and football nightmare. After arriving with sky-high expectations, injuries, underperformance, and mounting frustrations have left fans and analysts alike asking one crucial question: What would it take for the Jets to part ways with their aging quarterback?
Here’s a breakdown of the costs, cap hits, and cash details of Rodgers’ contract, along with the options facing the Jets as they ponder their future with the four-time MVP.
Aaron Rodgers’ Contract Breakdown: $112.5 Million Over Three Years
In 2023, Rodgers signed a three-year, $112.5 million deal with the Jets, which included $75 million guaranteed. The deal restructured his earnings to give the Jets flexibility, but his Achilles injury in his debut season derailed their plans. Despite missing 2023, Rodgers returned in 2024, playing the full season with hopes of redeeming the franchise.
Here’s what Rodgers was supposed to earn under the contract:
- 2023: $36.8 million in cash
- 2024: $38.1 million in cash, including a $31 million base salary
- 2025: $37.5 million in cash
His 2024 cap hit is $17 million, but his dead cap money is a whopping $66 million, making him nearly impossible to cut immediately.
The 2025 Season Dilemma
The Jets now face a tricky situation heading into 2025. Rodgers has publicly stated his intent to play in the season, but insiders, including Diana Russini of The Athletic, report there’s no guarantee he actually will.
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If the Jets decide to move on before 2025, here’s what they’re looking at financially:
- Cutting Rodgers Before June 1, 2025: This would result in a $23.5 million cap hit and $49 million in dead money.
- Cutting Rodgers After June 1, 2025: This option significantly reduces the damage to a $14 million cap hit, saving the team $9.5 million.
Analyst Nick Wright has publicly urged the Jets to delay their decision until after June 1 to minimize financial loss.
Also Read: Will This Be The Last Season For Aaron Rodgers? Everything About The NFL Star’s Poor Run
Can the Jets Trade Aaron Rodgers in 2025?
A trade might seem like an appealing option, but it’s unlikely any team will want to take on Rodgers’ remaining salary at age 41. Additionally, Rodgers holds significant influence over his career trajectory and may not agree to a trade after carefully orchestrating his move to the Jets.
If a trade did happen after June 1, the Jets would save the same $9.5 million as they would with a post-June 1 release. However, finding a buyer for a quarterback who has struggled on the field and demands substantial input on coaching and personnel decisions seems far-fetched.
What Happens if Aaron Rodgers Retires?
Retirement is another possibility. If Rodgers decides to hang up his cleats, the Jets would still face financial consequences due to the structure of his contract. However, retirement could also provide some relief by allowing the Jets to spread his dead money over multiple seasons, reducing the immediate impact.
Is There Any Hope for Rodgers and the Jets?
Despite the grim outlook, Rodgers has vocal supporters within the Jets’ locker room, and there’s a slim chance he could salvage the 2024 season and live up to the hype. But if his struggles persist, the Jets must weigh the costs of keeping him against the potential savings of moving on.
"Motivation struggles are real, even for pros. Aaron Rodgers' uninspiring quote after Jets' 3-8 season reveals the challenge of staying motivated amidst disappointment #Productivit…https://t.co/yzgX7qmBWw
— DailyProductivity (@rylee_dockins) November 19, 2024
As it stands, the team is stuck in a lose-lose situation: hold onto a fading star and risk more mediocrity, or bite the financial bullet and reset yet again. Either way, Aaron Rodgers’ time in New York is shaping up to be a costly gamble that might end without the promised payoff.
Also Read: Is Aaron Rodgers Planning To Retire? New York Jets QB Confirms Plans for 2025 Season
