New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

Aaron Rodgers' minicamp decision creates more drama

By Victor Barbosa | Last updated Jun 12, 2024 8:00 AM ET

Quarterback Aaron Rodgers has been involved in never-ending drama since arriving to the New York Jets last April.

As he looks to put his lost 2023 season behind him and eliminate off-the-field distractions, the four-time MVP has been doing anything but that through the first half of 2024.

While he was present for Jets OTAs this spring, Rodgers was a surprising no-show for the first day of mandatory minicamp on Tuesday.

Head coach Robert Saleh discussed Rodgers' unexcused absence and said he would prefer the signal-caller was in attendance but was OK with the situation.

#Jets coach Robert Saleh told reporters that QB Aaron Rodgers is not at minicamp today, an unexcused absence that is subject to fines. Saleh said it was for an event "important to him."

Pass-rusher Haason Reddick, who wants a new contract, is also not present.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 11, 2024

It’s two practices. Aaron Rodgers has been there all spring. But an unusual situation nonetheless … https://t.co/ocUVTFOdUh
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) June 11, 2024

Saleh said he's not disappointed by Rodgers' absence even though it's unexcused: "No. Again, selfishly I want our guys here all the time, but when you get to these mandatory things, you make the best decision for yourself. Obviously, selfishly, want all of 'em here all the time,…
— Rich Cimini (@RichCimini) June 11, 2024

Longtime NFL reporter Andrew Siciliano broke down the fines that Rodgers could be subject to if he has multiple absences.

Aaron Rodgers is subject to fines of $16,953, $33,908, and $50,855 for missing all three days of mandatory minicamp.

$101,716 total
— Andrew Siciliano (@AndrewSiciliano) June 11, 2024

Among the host of non-football areas that the former Green Bay Packers legend has been involved with lately is politics. Though he is ultimately choosing to suit up for his 20th season this fall, Rodgers was reported to be a contender for independent 2024 presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s running mate earlier this year.

California attorney and entrepreneur Nicole Shanahan was eventually selected to be on the ticket with the 70-year-old.

Victor Barbosa

Victor Barbosa is a passionate follower of MLB, the NBA and NFL, with a deep interest in Boston-area teams. He graduated from Springfield College -- The Birthplace of Basketball -- in 2013 with a degree in Communications-Sports Journalism. Previous bylines include FanSided, Heavy and Syracuse

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