The New York Jets and Green Bay Packers still haven’t agreed to terms on an Aaron Rodgers trade more than two weeks after he publicly stated his desire to leave. However, it appears there could be a resolution in sight for all parties.
Green Bay and New York have engaged in trade dialogue for weeks, with the conversations beginning when the Jets received permission to meet with Rodgers in California. However, progress towards a deal has been slow with the compensation in the return for Rodgers holding up a deal.
- Aaron Rodgers career stats: 103.6 QB rating, 475-105 TD-INT, 59,055 passing yards
While the two sides don’t have to agree to a deal until later this summer, both franchises strongly prefer to settle the matter before the end of April. With the 2023 NFL Draft just weeks away, it appears a deal could finally be on the horizon.
Related: New York Jets GM explains why Aaron Rodgers trade isn’t finalized
Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated wrote that progress has been made on a deal that will send Rodgers to New York. While a deal isn’t necessarily imminent, the NFL insider believes an agreement could be reached by the end of the week and no later than before the 2023 NFL Draft.
A tentative deadline for before the first round of the NFL Draft on Thursday, April 27 isn’t a surprise. The Packers want at least one pick this year, providing them with a rookie who can either make an immediate impact or they can develop in 2023.
Both sides could let the process play out into the NFL Draft, especially if New York and Green Bay are on the same page about the 13th overall pick not being involved. However, the Packers likely want resolution weeks in advance so they can prepare for their draft while New York wants to finally settle its quarterback situation.
Related: 3 Aaron Rodgers trade packages for New York Jets, Green Bay Packers
As for the return, Breer’s insight matches the previous reporting. Green Bay is unlikely to receive the 13th overall pick from New York in exchange for Rodgers. Instead, the Packers would likely acquire one of the Jets’ two second-round picks along with a conditional draft choice in 2024.
The conditional pick will likely depend either on Rodgers’ status in 2024 or the Jets’ success with him next season. If New York reached the AFC Championship Game or hosted a Divisional Round contest, the 2024 second-round pick could become a first-round selection.
One hesitation for the Jets’ front office has been uncertainty regarding Rodgers’ long-term plans. He heavily weighed retirement in each of the past three offseasons and will likely consider it again in 2024. Because of that, the Jets might seek compensation from the Packers if Rodgers retires next offseason.