Potential Landing Spots for Aaron Rodgers
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The New York Jets' experiment with quarterback Aaron Rodgers has not met expectations and may lead to a reevaluation in the offseason. According to reports from Fox Sports' Jay Glazer, Rodgers recently had discussions with the Jets, during which he was informed that the team intends to pursue a different direction at the quarterback position. Glazer interprets Rodgers' willingness to discuss his future with the team as an indication that he is inclined to continue his playing career into 2025, despite speculation surrounding the 20-year veteran's potential retirement. With this in mind, several teams may show interest in Rodgers, who recorded 3,897 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions with a 63 percent completion rate in the most recent season.
The Indianapolis Colts may be a significant contender for Rodgers' services, even though The Athletic's James Boyd anticipates that the team will proceed with Anthony Richardson as their starting quarterback for 2025. However, the Colts displayed a quick inclination to bench Richardson this past season, opting for veteran Joe Flacco midway through the campaign. With Rodgers expected to enter the free-agent market, Indianapolis may seek an experienced quarterback. General Manager Chris Ballard and Head Coach Shane Steichen face pressure following a modest 62-69-1 record during Ballard's eight-year tenure and Steichen's current standing at 17-17 as head coach. The Colts have previously pursued quarterbacks in the latter stages of their careers, such as Philip Rivers and Matt Ryan, making Rodgers a potential next option. Should he join the Colts, Rodgers would benefit from a capable offensive line, the talents of All-Pro running back Jonathan Taylor, and a solid receiver group that includes Michael Pittman Jr., Josh Downs, Alec Pierce, and Adonai Mitchell.
The Las Vegas Raiders represent an intriguing prospect for Rodgers, albeit as one of the less likely landing spots. They currently find themselves with a pressing need for a quarterback and have $92.5 million available in cap space. With a new general manager, John Spytek, and head coach, Pete Carroll, the Raiders might not shy away from acquiring Rodgers, given his experience. Carroll witnessed the success of 35-year-old Matt Hasselbeck as a starting quarterback during his time with the Seattle Seahawks. Spytek was part of the Buccaneers' front office when Tom Brady signed there at 42 years old, suggesting that age may not deter the Raiders from seeking an upgrade over current quarterbacks Aidan O'Connell and Gardner Minshew. However, the complexity arises if Rodgers wishes to bring former teammate Davante Adams along, as convincing Adams to rejoin the Raiders could present challenges following his prior trade request in October.
The New York Giants find themselves in a unique position, as they do not have a quarterback under contract for 2025. If the Giants are considering Rodgers, he could remain in East Rutherford, New Jersey, and become their undisputed starter. With the No. 3 overall pick in the upcoming draft, the Giants are positioned but must contend with the Tennessee Titans and Cleveland Browns, both of which may select quarterbacks. The Titans dealt with the struggles of quarterback Will Levis during the previous season, while the Browns' Deshaun Watson has faced injury setbacks. Depending on how the draft order unfolds, the Giants could take a measured approach in addressing their quarterback situation or proactively engage in free agency. Rodgers has also expressed a willingness to mentor younger quarterbacks, which could allow the Giants to sign him as a bridge option while still planning to draft a quarterback with the No. 3 pick.
The Pittsburgh Steelers emerge as a potentially ideal destination for Rodgers. At 41, he could join a playoff-competitive team and potentially reunite with former teammate Davante Adams. The Steelers currently grapple with uncertainties at both the quarterback and wide receiver positions. Jay Glazer has suggested that Russell Wilson may not return to Pittsburgh, and unless an early extension occurs, Justin Fields will be a free agent in March. Steelers owner Art Rooney II has acknowledged the need to improve the wide receiver group, stating that it is a priority for the team's future. The Steelers are in a position to attract star players like Rodgers and Adams, enabling a short-term plan aimed at overcoming playoff challenges.
The Tennessee Titans hold multiple options regarding their quarterback situation, bolstered by the No. 1 overall pick and $44 million in cap space. While some analysts expect the Titans to select a quarterback with the top pick, ESPN's Dan Graziano suggests that a trade down may be a possibility as evaluations progress. The organization may ultimately go in the direction of Miami's Cam Ward. That said, Rodgers could provide a savvy alternative should the Titans conclude that none of the available quarterbacks are ready to start immediately. Strategically pairing Rodgers with a rookie quarterback would allow the Titans to implement a more traditional approach, allowing the rookie to develop under an experienced player while they seek a short-term solution.
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