Florham Park, N.J. — New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers is set to make his 241st career start this Sunday, but there’s a chance it could be his last game in the NFL. Rodgers, now 41 years old, acknowledged this possibility during a recent press conference. “Yeah, of course,” he said when asked if he had thought about retirement as he prepares to face the Miami Dolphins at MetLife Stadium. He indicated that he would make a decision about his future before free agency in March and joked that he wouldn’t need a retirement retreat to sort through his thoughts this time around.
In a reflective mood, Rodgers expressed deep gratitude for his two-decade-long career. He appreciated the coaches and teammates who played a significant role in his journey from high school football to the Jets. “This game has given me a lot,” he said, hinting that he may be contemplating the end of his playing days. “I’m really proud of what I’ve been able to be a part of, what I’ve been able to accomplish,” he added.
Rodgers, who joined the Jets in April 2023, called these moments “the best two years of my life,” despite the struggles on the field this season. After suffering a torn Achilles early in the year, his performance hasn’t met expectations. As of now, he ranks 25th among 33 qualified passers in Total QBR, with 24 touchdown passes and 10 interceptions this season. The Jets, once eyeing a Super Bowl run, have stumbled to a 4-12 record.
Expressing disappointment over the team’s performance, he said, “If I feel good coming back and they want to make another run at this, that’d be fantastic, but I’m not naive to the situation we’re in.” Meanwhile, the Jets are undergoing their own internal changes, having recently fired head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas.
Rodgers is under contract through 2025 but acknowledged the likelihood of changes, including potentially at the quarterback position. He mentioned wanting to connect with the next general manager about the team’s direction, but emphasized that right now, he needs some mental and physical rest. The grind of rehabbing his injury has taken its toll.
Moreover, Rodgers is on the brink of becoming the fifth player in NFL history to throw for 500 touchdown passes. With a total of 62,678 passing yards, he is just 115 yards shy of surpassing Matt Ryan for seventh place on the all-time list.
In the meantime, wide receiver Garrett Wilson weighed in on his relationship with Rodgers amidst speculation of conflict. He described playing alongside the four-time MVP as a “blessing” and downplayed any rumors suggesting tension. “At the end of the day, I don’t speak on things like that because social media is not real,” he stated. Wilson expressed a desire to conclude the season on a positive note, focusing on unity rather than division.
As fans eagerly anticipate Sunday’s game, many are left to wonder if this moment will mark the end of an era in NFL history with Aaron Rodgers taking the field one last time.
