With the 2024 NFL season spiraling downward for the New York Jets, the future of quarterback Aaron Rodgers is up for debate. Despite being one of the league's most notable figures, his tenure with the Jets is increasingly seen as uncertain, especially following recent organizational upheaval. This season has not only tested the team's resolve but also shaken the confidence surrounding Rodgers’ capabilities on the field.
Rodgers, who had high expectations upon his arrival after joining the team from the Green Bay Packers, is currently facing potential benching or even being put on injured reserve, according to reports from NFL insiders. Dianna Russini from The Athletic indicated some within the league believe it would not be shocking if the Jets opted to release the four-time MVP during the season. This stark possibility is fueled by discussions involving Jets owner Woody Johnson, who has expressed concern over Rodgers’ performance, particularly following their disappointing 10-9 loss to the Denver Broncos.
Ever since head coach Robert Saleh was let go on October 8, the Jets have been scrambling to find their footing. The disarray within the organization became more apparent as the team struggled to generate any real momentum, losing six of their last seven games and now sitting at the bottom of the AFC East alongside the New England Patriots.
Rodgers has hasn't been devoid of challenges. This year has not been easy for him as he continues to deal with multiple injuries across his hamstring, knee, and ankle, following the devastating Achilles tear he suffered just minutes after the season began. While he's shown resilience, his current performance—a passer rating of just 88.9—leaves much to be desired. The Jets' offense averages only 18.5 points per game, placing them 26th in the league. These figures raise significant questions about whether Rodgers can still lead this franchise as it aims for playoff contention.
Time and again during this campaign, Rodgers has underscored his desire to remain competitive, maintaining his intention to play through 2025. Nevertheless, the relationship between him and Johnson seems to be deterioriating. Reports highlight Johnson’s lack of confidence in Rodgers and his growing frustrations with the direction of the team.
The Jets are not just grappling with poor performances on the field; they are also trying to climb out of chaos within their front office. With the recent firing of general manager Joe Douglas, it’s clear the organization is searching for answers, trying to pinpoint where the operations have gone wrong. The franchise’s baffling decisions—like the high-profile trade for Davante Adams—have yet to yield the results they were hoping for, and many wonder if it was merely another misstep.
If the situation does not improve, Rodgers might find himself benched or placed on injured reserve during the coming weeks. There’s no clear indication as to who would take the quarterback reins should the Jets choose to move on from him during this tumultuous season. Tyrod Taylor serves as the current backup and could be the logical temporary fix, but many are left to ponder who would lead the team come 2025 should the changes continue.
Among the rumored potential replacements is Russell Wilson, who has faced his own struggles with the Denver Broncos, as well as Sam Darnold, who previously played with the Jets. Whether those quarterbacks—even with their past experiences—could help stabilize New York's shaky offense remains questionable.
Despite all the uncertainty, there's been some effort from the coaching staff to change the dynamic on the offensive side of the game, having demoted offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett shortly after Saleh’s dismissal. This move didn't lead to immediate results, as the most recent stretch of performances has raised growing concerns about the entire team's direction.
It’s clear the New York Jets are at a crossroads. Will they stick with Rodgers through the remainder of this season, or could they decide it’s time for both the team and the quarterback to move on from one another? The impact of these decisions is likely to echo for seasons to come, both for franchise and player.
For now, fans and analysts alike are left wondering how the next few weeks might shape the future of not just Aaron Rodgers, but the entire organization. With the New York Jets scheduled to face the Seattle Seahawks next, only time will tell how they choose to navigate this precarious moment.
