Aaron Rodgers made history on January 5, 2025, as he became the fifth player in NFL history to throw 500 career touchdown passes during the New York Jets' Week 18 matchup against the Miami Dolphins. The moment unfolded midway through the second quarter, with the Jets trailing 6-0 when Rodgers connected with tight end Tyler Conklin, throwing a five-yard touchdown pass to give the Jets a 7-6 lead.
This milestone pass not only highlighted Rodgers' elite status among quarterbacks but also provided the Jets with much-needed momentum during their struggling season. Celebrations erupted as Conklin handed the ball back to Rodgers, and teammates embraced him on the sidelines, marking the occasion with heartfelt gestures. The quarterback's move places him alongside other legendary quarterbacks, including Tom Brady (649), Drew Brees (571), Peyton Manning (539), and Brett Favre (508).
En route to this achievement, Rodgers entered the game just one touchdown shy of the milestone, having thrown his 499th touchdown earlier against the Los Angeles Rams. Despite facing challenges this season, including suffering injuries and adjusting to new players, Rodgers showcased resilience and talent, throwing four touchdowns during the game and leading the Jets to a thrilling 32-30 victory.
Rodgers' career is particularly remarkable considering he became a starting quarterback at 26, later than some of his contemporaries. His path to achieving 500 touchdown passes included missing the entire 2023 season due to injury, highlighting the significance of his accomplishment this year.
After reaching this incredible milestone, Rodgers reflected on his time with the Jets, claiming the last two years were the "best of his life". This heartfelt sentiment contrasts sharply with the disappointing performance of the team overall, as they finished the season with just five wins and twelve losses, resulting in firings within the coaching staff and management. The Jets' future, along with Rodgers', remains uncertain, as changes loom within the organization.
Looking back at Rodgers' legacy, 475 of his touchdown passes occurred during his illustrious 18-year career with the Green Bay Packers. His ability to throw precisely and decisively has earned him respect and admiration across the league, with many fans and analysts optimistic about what he can still achieve.
While the celebration of his 500th touchdown highlighted personal achievement, questions about his future linger. Following the game, he stated he would take time to assess his options, having one year left on his contract. The Jets are also considering their direction moving forward under new leadership, which may not align with Rodgers' plans, potentially complicate his return.
Fans and pundits are eager to see if this will be Rodgers' last game, with many speculating about his place within the league’s history. Regardless of what happens next, his achievement of 500 touchdown passes solidifies his status not just as one of the greats of his era, but as part of NFL history.
On social media, reactions poured in from all corners of the NFL community, celebrating Rodgers' accomplishment and expressing hope for what the future may hold for the legendary quarterback. Whether he chooses to continue playing or step back, one thing is clear: his impact on the game and the joy he brought fans, teammates, and coaches alike will not be forgotten.
With the season concluding, the spotlight now turns to the offseason for both Rodgers and the Jets. The allied and sometimes turbulent relationship forged over the past two years will be pivotal as changes loom and decisions must be made. Should he return for another season, the opportunity to pass Brett Favre's 508 touchdowns (the last member of his exclusive 500 club still standing between him and a higher ranking) will be on the horizon, adding another possible storyline to what has been one of the most compelling chapters of his storied career.