2x Super Bowl Champion Makes Clear Choice Between Justin Fields, Aaron Rodgers

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Dean Koutouratsas | Last updated Jul 11, 2025 4:01 PM ET

Following the franchise’s ninth consecutive losing season at 5-12, the New York Jets made some changes to their quarterback room during the offseason.

They started by parting ways with veteran Aaron Rodgers, who lasted one full season (missed 2024 season with Achilles tear) as their starting quarterback after being unable to help them reach the postseason. Following Rodgers' departure, the Jets front office signed former first-round pick Justin Fields to a two-year, $40 million contract to replace him.

Fields spent last season with the Pittsburgh Steelers as a backup to Russell Wilson and started the first six games. He appeared in 10 games overall, completing 65.8% of his passes for 1,106 yards with five touchdowns and one interception. He also rushed for 289 yards and scored five touchdowns.

Rodgers then took his talents to the Steelers on a one-year, $19.5 million deal as they spent the entire offseason searching for a starting quarterback after Wilson signed with the New York Giants and Fields chose the Jets.

As both quarterbacks signed their contracts, the situation has created a debate among a group of ESPN analysts about who will have the better chance to help their new team succeed, and a former Super Bowl champion has already made up his mind.

“I’m taking [Aaron Rodgers] [who] is in a better spot to win and one of the best organizations with a future hall of fame head coach,” former New England Patriots offensive lineman Damien Woody said during a recent episode of “NFL on ESPN.”

“I’m going to take the head coach that has never had a losing record,” Woody added. “So for me, this is more about Mike Tomlin and the Pittsburgh Steelers giving Aaron Rodgers that infrastructure to be successful in this scenario.”

However, Woody did note that a possible issue with Rodgers being the starting quarterback is his age. At 41 and heading into his 20th season in the league, Rodgers could continue to slow down more than he already has. The Steelers are hoping Rodgers has one more great season in him.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: