The New York Jets are at a turning point with Aaron Rodgers heading into the 2025 season. After a disastrous 2023 campaign where Rodgers tore his Achilles just four snaps into the season and an underwhelming 2024 season despite his return, the big question is whether he’s still the guy for the job. At 41, Rodgers clearly isn’t a long-term answer, but letting him go now might slam the door on the Jets’ immediate chances at success. With two decades of NFL experience, a Super Bowl win, four MVPs, and over 62,000 passing yards to his name, Rodgers is still one of the most accomplished quarterbacks out there.
Despite the setbacks, Rodgers showed in 2024 that he’s still got it. He finished the season with 3,897 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and a 63% completion rate. The way he bounced back in the second half of the season proved he can adapt and deliver even after a major injury. The Jets have some difficult decisions to make, especially with the financial stakes tied to his contract.
Here’s why sticking with Rodgers might be the Jets’ best move.
3. The Super Bowl Dream Is Still Alive
The Jets didn’t bring Rodgers in to just make the playoffs. They brought him in to win it all. Sure, 2024 didn’t live up to the hype, but the pieces are there for a serious run in 2025. Rodgers really hit his stride late in the season, and with more time to recover, he could come back sharper, both in terms of mobility and his legendary arm strength.
Success in the NFL is all about consistency. Rodgers has already built solid chemistry with his receivers and proven he can thrive when the offensive line holds up. Plus, the Jets have strong draft capital to address any weak spots on the roster. NFL history shows how quickly teams can turn things around with the right leadership. Just look at the Los Angeles Chargers’ quick rebound to playoff contention. Rodgers is the steady, proven leader the Jets need to guide them through the high-pressure path to a championship.
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2. The Contract Is Manageable
Aaron Rodgers’ contract is a headache, no doubt about it, but it’s not unworkable. He’s already said he’s open to renegotiating, which gives the Jets some wiggle room. For 2025, his cap hit is $23.5 million with $37.5 million in cash payouts. It’s not cheap, but restructuring his bonuses could ease the load on the team’s budget.
Letting him go isn’t exactly a clean break, either. Cutting or trading him before June 1 would leave the Jets with $49 million in dead money, while waiting until after June 1 would still push $35 million into 2026. Either way, it’s a tough pill to swallow. Keeping Rodgers and reworking his deal keeps their financial options open while allowing them to address critical needs such as fixing the offensive line. With the 7th overall pick in the draft, the Jets have a golden opportunity to strengthen the protection around Rodgers for a potential 2025 comeback.
1. Rodgers Brings Leadership And Experience
The quarterback situation beyond Rodgers isn’t looking too promising. Tyrod Taylor is a dependable veteran, and Jordan Travis has potential, but neither seems ready to lead the team deep into the playoffs. Rodgers, on the other hand, is still playing at a high level. In his last ten games of 2024, he threw for 18 touchdowns against just four interceptions. His accuracy and mobility improved as the season went on, proving he’s not done yet.
Rodgers’ is a leader, hence, his presence brings more than just good stats. He can attract free agents and create continuity within the team. The Jets already have a strong receiving corps with Garrett Wilson and Davante Adams. Wilson hauled in over 1,100 yards on 100 catches last year, and Adams added 850 yards despite joining the team midseason. Pair that with the Jets’ talented trio of running backs and potential draft upgrades, and this offense has the tools to be explosive. The Jets could be primed for a big year with Aaron Rodgers as the quarterback.
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