We’re now three weeks into NFL free agency, with most of the top players already off the board. Yet, one of the biggest dominoes, the expected Aaron Rodgers trade to the New York Jets, has yet to fall.
There isn’t any talk of another team getting into the sweepstakes to acquire the four-time NFL MVP, and both the QB and the Jets have been very public about their desire to pair up. Yet, here we sit, a full three weeks since Rodgers reportedly had the revelation that he wants to suit up in a Jets uniform next season, and nothing has changed. Rodgers remains a member of the Green Bay Packers, just as he has been for the past 18 seasons.
Meanwhile, one of the key members involved in executing the trade, Jets general manager Joe Douglas had a few comments on the matter at Monday’s NFL owner’s meeting with GMs and coaches in attendance as well.
As to why the Rodgers to the Jets trade isn’t completed yet? Douglas states the trade discussions have “played out different” and appears unwilling to part with their top draft choice, the 13th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.
“There’s been some productive conversations. We’re not where we need to be yet but I feel we’re in a good place. There’s no hard deadline. There’s not a ton of urgency from our standpoint but very optimistic.”
New York Jets GM Joe Douglas on Aaron Rodgers trade discussions
Douglas had no interest in detailing which draft selections have been discussed, only stating “you really have an opportunity to bring in a strong player” with the 13th pick.
Yet, the Jets do hold the 42nd and 43rd picks, in addition to three more selections from the fourth through sixth rounds. Apparently, this hasn’t been enough to move the needle so far.
Related: One team apparently pulls out of Ezekiel Elliott sweepstakes in NFL free agency
New York Jets’ Joe Douglas shoots down Lamar Jackson trade
While everyone expects Rodgers to eventually touch down in the Big Apple, another piece of significant news broke on Monday morning with Lamar Jackson making his trade request public for the first time.
Yet, don’t expect the Jets to suddenly jump into the mix to acquire the 2019 NFL MVP, according to their GM.
Joe Douglas noted it would be “disingenuous.” to start getting involved in Lamar Jackson trade discussions now due to already being committed to another QB plan this offseason.
In other words, it’s Aaron Rodgers or bust for the New York Jets in 2023.
Related: Lamar Jackson next team odds: New England Patriots among the favorites