The New York Jets acquired Aaron Rodgers this offseason confident he could make them a Super Bowl contender in 2023 and held out hope he would stick around beyond that. While the upcoming season is the focus, it appears Rodgers wants to give New York what it wants.
One of the biggest hang-ups in trade talks between the Jets and Green Bay Packers was Rodgers’ future. After going back and forth on retirement in each of the past three offseasons, New York wanted draft pick protections in case Rodgers retired following the 2023 season.
- Aaron Rodgers stats (2022): 3,695 passing yards, 26-12 TD-INT, 64.6% completion rate, 217.4 pass ypg, 91.1 quarterback rating
While Rodgers doesn’t have to make a decision right now, the future Hall of Fame quarterback did hint at where things are headed. During an appearance on ESPN Radio’s DiPitero ^ Rothenberg Show, Rodgers said he feels obligated to play multiple seasons with the Jets.
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“The Jets gave up a lot for me, so to play just one year. I think, would be a disservice. Now, if that one year turns out to be a magical year, who knows? But it’s more than that: It’s how my body feels… we’ll see how it feels, but the way I feel now, I think I could play a number of years.”
Aaron Rodgers on playing for the New York Jets in 2024 (H/T Pro Football Talk)
The belief that Rodgers will play for New York in 2024 is shared by head coach Robert Saleh, who told reporters he would be “shocked” if the former Super Bowl MVP isn’t with the Jets for the next two seasons.
While Rodgers might feel obligated to play multiple seasons with the Jets because of what they traded to acquire him, there’s likely another factor at play. Because he hasn’t restructured his contract with New York, he’s owed a total compensation of $107.55 million net year.
Rodgers will have to restructure the contract within the next year, especially with his $58.3 million option bonus due in 2024. Ultimately, based on his comments and the sentiment within the Jets’ organization, New York’s Super Bowl window will likely be open for two years.
