Aaron Rodgers showcased his enduring talent in Week 18, reaffirming that he can still perform at an elite level as he contemplates a potential 21st season in the NFL. The four-time MVP threw four touchdown passes in a 32-20 victory over the Miami Dolphins, helping the New York Jets conclude a challenging season on a positive note while the Dolphins were fighting to keep their slim playoff hopes alive.
In this game, Rodgers became the fifth player in NFL history to reach 500 career touchdown passes, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career.
As the offseason approaches, Rodgers faces uncertainty regarding his future. He must decide whether to continue playing or retire, and he is unsure if the Jets will want him back after a disappointing 5-12 season. “I just need some time away to think about my future in the game, and my future here if they want me to be a part of the next phase or they’re ready to move on,” he said. “Either way, I’m thankful for my two years here.”
The Jets are currently in the process of hiring a new general manager and head coach, which could influence their decision regarding Rodgers. Team owner Woody Johnson, vice chairman Christopher Johnson, and team president Hymie Elhai are expected to meet with Rodgers in the coming week. “I’m looking forward to those conversations,” he noted. “It feels good to be able to do some of the things these last five or six weeks I know I was capable of doing, even at 40, 41. But either way, I won’t be upset or offended with what they decide to do — if they want to move on, if I still want to play.”
Rodgers, who turned 41 last month, faced challenges this season after recovering from a torn Achilles tendon that cut short his first year with the Jets. However, he showed marked improvement late in the season, culminating in a standout performance against the Dolphins.
Fox analyst Greg Olsen commented on Rodgers’ capabilities, stating, “We have talked a lot about can he still play… Coming into this game, he had five touchdown passes through 17 weeks while under pressure or on the move. He threw four today, which is the most by any quarterback this entire season. This is the best version of Aaron Rodgers we’ve seen all year.”
Financially, Rodgers is set to earn a non-guaranteed $37.5 million in 2025, with a dead cap hit of $49 million as his salary cap total increases from $17.1 million to $23.5 million. The Jets could opt to release him, spreading the dead money over two years through a post-June 1 designation, but they would need his permission to facilitate any trade due to his no-trade clause.
If Rodgers seeks to continue his career and the Jets decide to move on, several teams could present potential landing spots for the future Hall of Famer:
Tennessee Titans: After a six-game losing streak secured the No. 1 overall pick, the Titans will be in search of a franchise quarterback. Rodgers could serve as a one-year solution while a rookie, such as Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders or Miami’s Cam Ward, develops.
Cleveland Browns: With the No. 2 pick in the draft and a struggling Deshaun Watson recovering from a torn Achilles, the Browns might consider Rodgers as a short-term option to compete in 2025.
New York Giants: After a recent win that cost them the top draft pick, the Giants need a franchise quarterback. Rodgers could provide stability as a bridge quarterback without relocating.
Las Vegas Raiders: With the sixth pick and a need for a quarterback, the Raiders could be an attractive destination. New minority owner Tom Brady, who has a strong relationship with Rodgers, may advocate for him to mentor a rookie.
Indianapolis Colts: Following an inconsistent season from rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson, the Colts might see value in bringing in Rodgers for a playoff push while allowing Richardson to learn from him.
As Rodgers navigates this pivotal offseason, his performance in Week 18 has reignited discussions about his future in the league.
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