Total Pro Sports
The Aaron Rodgers era in New York is almost over. It was first reported on Super Bowl Sunday that the 41-year-old quarterback will not return to the Jets in 2025 under new head coach Aaron Glenn. While Rodgers still gives the team the best chance to win, this decision is about more than just the upcoming season. It’s about resetting the franchise, establishing a new culture, and making long-term financial and roster moves.
Here’s why moving on from Rodgers is the right call for the Jets.
Aaron Glenn is making it clear- he runs this team, and things will be done his way. He demands full commitment from his players, so he reportedly told Rodgers to attend all offseason team activities and stop appearing on the Pat McAfee Show if he wanted to stay. That didn’t sit well with Rodgers, and now, both sides are moving on.
The Jets have informed Aaron Rodgers that they will be moving in a different direction at quarterback. pic.twitter.com/xRfTsYNuNm
— NFL (@NFL) February 13, 2025
For the Jets, this is an opportunity to start fresh without the distractions that came with Rodgers’ media presence and unpredictable offseason schedule. Glenn doesn’t want to answer weekly questions about his quarterback’s vacations or controversial podcast comments. The focus now shifts to building a new culture and identity, something the Jets have lacked for years.
Glenn hired former Lions passing game coordinator Tanner Engstrand as the new offensive coordinator, and moving on from Rodgers makes his job significantly easier. Engstrand, whose only prior experience as an OC was with the UFL’s DC Defenders in 2020, now has the freedom to install and develop his own system rather than adjusting to Rodgers’ preferences.
With Rodgers in the fold, there would always be questions about whether he had the final say on play calls or if Engstrand was being overruled. Now, Engstrand can run the offense the way he envisions without worrying about stepping on the toes of a future Hall of Famer. It also allows the Jets to develop their next quarterback without the pressure of catering to Rodgers’ style of play.
Also Read: New York Jets QB Aaron Rodgers Is Officially Done
Rumors swirled last season that star receiver Garrett Wilson would request a trade if Rodgers returned in 2025. While Wilson denied those reports, no doubt remained that the midseason trade for Davante Adams drastically cut his target share, frustrating him. Rodgers immediately favored Adams, leaving Wilson with a reduced role in the offense.
With Rodgers gone, the Jets will likely release Adams, clearing the path for Wilson to reestablish himself as their No. 1 receiver. The team will want to lock him up with a long-term contract, potentially making him the highest-paid receiver in the league. That becomes a much easier process without Rodgers and Adams in the picture. It’s a win-win for Wilson and the Jets’...
