Aaron Rodgers: What Is Next?

Aaron Rodgers’ time with the New York Jets is officially over. After months of speculation and questions about his future, the team released the 41-year-old quarterback on March 12, 2025. What was supposed to be a championship run ended with disappointment, injury setbacks, and more headlines off the field than on it. Now, the four-time MVP is a free agent again, and fans are left wondering whether Rodgers has one more run in him or if this is the end of the road.

A Jets Run That Never Lived Up To the Hype

When the Jets traded for Aaron Rodgers in 2023, it was supposed to be a franchise-altering move. They had a young, talented defense, some rising stars on offense, and believed they were just a quarterback away from being true contenders. Rodgers was that quarterback at least on paper.

But in a brutal twist of fate, Rodgers tore his Achilles just four snaps into his Jets debut. The season was essentially over before it even started. He spent most of 2023 rehabbing, and although there were rumblings that he might try to make a miraculous return before the year was up, that never happened.

Fast-forward to 2024. Rodgers returned to the field and played all 17 games, even reaching the 500 career passing touchdown milestone. But the team did not click. The Jets finished 5-12, missing the playoffs again. Rodgers reportedly played through multiple injuries including on his hamstring, knee, and ankle, but refused scans or medical testing. That did not sit well with many inside the organization.

The front office had seen enough. With a new general manager and head coach in place, the Jets decided to start fresh, releasing Rodgers and signing Justin Fields to take over as their starting quarterback.

Rodgers’ Commitment Is Starting to Be Questioned

One of the biggest concerns surrounding Rodgers is not his talent, it is his commitment. He has still got one of the best arms in the game when healthy, but front offices are now asking whether he is still all-in on football.

There were reports that he skipped out on mandatory team activities. He also took offseason trips while younger players were grinding through OTAs and conditioning. Some insiders have raised concerns that Rodgers did not fully buy in with the Jets, at least not in the way a team expects from a leader with his resume and salary.

On top of that, there is a growing perception that Rodgers is selective about his effort, almost like he is playing on his own terms. And in the NFL, that kind of approach usually wears thin pretty fast, especially when the wins do not come.

Possible Landing Spots, but No Guarantees

Rodgers has said he wants to keep playing, and there is no doubt he could help the right team. Several franchises are reportedly keeping an eye on him. The New York Giants have been mentioned after moving on from Daniel Jones. Other teams like the Raiders, Steelers, Browns, Titans, and Saints might kick the tires too, depending on how the draft and free agency shakes out.

But here is the thing: just because Rodgers wants to play does not mean teams are going to jump at the chance. His age, recent injury history, and unpredictable attitude make him a gamble. He is still a massive name, and fans would get excited, but teams looking for long-term stability might think twice.

Still, if a contending team gets desperate or sees him as a missing piece, it would not be surprising to see Rodgers sign one more short-term deal. For now, he waits. And so does the league.