Aaron Rodgers to Stay as Jets’ QB Despite Struggles
For his 41st birthday, New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers received a gift that might be more of a challenge than a celebration: the chance to remain the team’s starting quarterback for the final five games of the season. Interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich confirmed the decision Monday morning, despite the Jets’ ongoing struggles and Rodgers’ own inconsistent performances this season.
After Sunday’s 26-21 loss to the Seattle Seahawks, Ulbrich had left the door open for speculation with a lukewarm endorsement of Rodgers. However, he clarified his stance, stating that Rodgers still has the ability to play at a “high level” and gives the Jets (3-9) their best chance to win. Rodgers’ Hall-of-Fame resume also played a role in the decision.
“Obviously, that’s part of every conversation regarding Aaron,” Ulbrich said. “Yeah, he’s done amazing things. He’s done legendary things, Hall-of-Fame things in this league, and I think that’s always part of the conversation. Always.”
Rodgers’ Role Solidified, But for How Long?
Ulbrich made it clear that Rodgers is the team’s quarterback moving forward, barring injury. “No, he’s our quarterback,” Ulbrich said, shutting down the idea of a week-to-week evaluation. Veteran Tyrod Taylor remains the backup.
However, the situation may not be as straightforward as it seems. Team owner Woody Johnson reportedly considered benching Rodgers earlier in the season when the Jets were 2-2. While Johnson ultimately backed off, his influence looms large, and he could revisit the idea. Ulbrich declined to comment on whether Johnson had input into the decision, saying only that they have “good, healthy conversations.”
Meanwhile, the Jets’ ownership is already looking ahead to 2025, having hired an outside firm to assist with searches for a new general manager and head coach. This adds another layer of uncertainty to Rodgers’ future with the team.
Rodgers’ Performance: A Shadow of His MVP Days
Rodgers, who turned 41 on Monday, will make his 14th start for the Jets this Sunday against the Miami Dolphins (5-7). However, his recent performances have been far from the standard he set during his four MVP-winning seasons with the Green Bay Packers.
In Sunday’s game, Rodgers completed 21 of 39 passes for 185 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. While the stats might not seem disastrous, they don’t tell the full story. In the second quarter, Rodgers overthrew a wide-open Garrett Wilson on what could have been a nine-yard touchdown. On the very next play, he threw an interception that resulted in a historic pick-six. Leonard Williams returned the ball 92 yards, marking the longest pick-six in history by a defensive lineman.
Rodgers’ season stats paint a grim picture: 19 touchdown passes, eight interceptions, an average of 219 passing yards per game, a completion percentage of 62.5%, and a career-low 6.3 yards per attempt. He ranks 23rd out of 34 qualified passers in Total QBR (49.0), well below the league average of 57.5. The Jets have yet to score more than 28 points in a game this season.
Clutch Moments Missing
Perhaps most concerning is Rodgers’ inability to deliver in high-pressure situations. In five of the Jets’ nine losses, Rodgers had the ball with a chance to lead a game-winning drive on the final possession. The Jets lost all five of those games.
After Sunday’s loss, Rodgers raised eyebrows with his comments, deflecting some of the blame for the team’s struggles. “Well, there are 11 guys on the field,” he said. “Sometimes it’s my fault. Definitely multiple times today. And then the details aren’t there in some other spots, too.”
Injuries and Accountability
Rodgers has been battling leg injuries, including hamstring and knee issues, which have affected his mobility. Ulbrich acknowledged the toll these injuries have taken but praised Rodgers’ toughness and commitment to the team. “He’s battled through a lot of things, regardless of your age,” Ulbrich said. “What he’s had is something that some guys in this league may not play with, so he’s a tough guy and he feels a high level of accountability to his teammates.”
Despite the challenges, Ulbrich remains optimistic. “We have great belief in Aaron,” he said. “We really do, and we think he gives us the best opportunity to win. After assessing (Sunday’s) game, I thought there were moments in the first half where you saw Aaron Rodgers. I thought there were moments even in the second half where you saw Aaron Rodgers. And then there were moments that he didn’t play to his standard, and he’d tell you the same.”
What’s Next for Rodgers and the Jets?
As the Jets prepare to face the Dolphins, the pressure is on Rodgers to prove he can still lead the team effectively. With ownership already looking toward the future and Rodgers undecided about playing in 2025, the next five games could be pivotal for both the quarterback and the franchise.
- Will Rodgers bounce back and finish the season strong?
- Can the Jets salvage anything from a disappointing year?
- How will ownership’s long-term plans impact Rodgers’ role?
One thing is certain: all eyes will be on Aaron Rodgers as the Jets navigate the final stretch of a turbulent season.
Originally Written by: Rich Cimini
