Aaron Rodgers: Who did he play for last year | Why did he leave the Jets
Rodgers’ Journey Before the Jets
Aaron Rodgers built a Hall of Fame career with the Green Bay Packers. After nearly two decades in Wisconsin, he joined the New York Jets in 2023. The move was seen as a bold gamble by the Jets, who wanted an experienced leader to end their playoff drought.
Rodgers’ First Season Setback
Rodgers’ highly anticipated 2023 debut ended in heartbreak. Just four plays into the opener, he tore his Achilles. The season was over before it even began. Jets fans had to wait until 2024 to see Rodgers fully in action.
Who Did Rodgers Play For Last Year?
In 2024, Rodgers played for the New York Jets. He started all 17 regular-season games. His return was encouraging, but the season had mixed results.
Key Stats From 2024
-
3,897 passing yards
-
28 touchdowns
-
11 interceptions
-
Third-most passing yards in a season for the Jets
On paper, those numbers looked strong. Yet, deeper analysis painted a different picture.
Concerns About Rodgers’ Play
Rodgers’ yards per attempt and downfield accuracy dipped. He leaned heavily on short throws. Critics noted his reduced mobility after the Achilles injury. At times, it seemed like Rodgers avoided taking risks.
In addition, reports surfaced that he played through nagging injuries. He even declined recommended medical scans. These choices raised questions about his durability and decision-making.
Jets’ Struggles in 2024
While Rodgers did his part statistically, the team faltered. The Jets finished 5–12, missing the playoffs again.
Coaching Instability
Head coach Robert Saleh was fired after a 2–3 start. Interim coach Jeff Ulbrich took over, but results didn’t improve. Later, general manager Joe Douglas was also let go. Such instability made it harder for Rodgers to succeed.
Failure to Close Out Games
The Jets often lost close contests. Mistakes in the fourth quarter and lack of execution on key drives hurt them. Rodgers’ conservative passing style also contributed to missed opportunities.
Why Did Rodgers Leave the Jets?
By February 2025, the Jets decided to move on. They officially released Rodgers with a post-June 1 designation to manage the salary cap hit.
Main Reasons for the Split
-
Declining mobility – Rodgers couldn’t extend plays like he once did.
-
Team underperformance – Despite his stats, the Jets stayed far from playoff contention.
-
Organizational changes – A new coaching staff and front office wanted a fresh start.
-
Financial concerns – Releasing him allowed the Jets to spread cap costs over two years.
-
Future planning – The team shifted focus toward rebuilding with younger talent.
Rodgers’ New Chapter With the Steelers
After leaving New York, Rodgers signed a one-year deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2025.
Week 1 Revenge Game
In his Steelers debut, he faced the Jets. Rodgers threw for 244 yards and four touchdowns. Pittsburgh won 34–32, and Rodgers showed flashes of his old brilliance.
Why Pittsburgh?
Rodgers cited his excitement to play with DK Metcalf as one reason. The Steelers also gave him a system suited to quick passes and veteran leadership. Aaron Rodgers left the Jets.
Was Rodgers’ Jets Tenure a Success or Failure?
The answer depends on perspective.
-
Success: He proved he could return from a major injury and still post strong stats.
-
Failure: The team failed to make the playoffs and moved on quickly.
-
Mixed bag: Rodgers valued his time in New York, but the chapter ended earlier than anyone expected.
Key Takeaways
-
Rodgers played for the Jets in 2024.
-
He put up nearly 3,900 yards and 28 touchdowns.
-
Injuries, coaching changes, and team struggles limited success.
-
The Jets released him in early 2025.
-
Rodgers signed with the Steelers and started strong.
FAQs
Q: Who did Aaron Rodgers play for in 2024?
A: He played for the New York Jets, starting all 17 games.
Q: What were Rodgers’ 2024 stats?
A: He recorded 3,897 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. Aaron Rodgers left the Jets.
Q: Why did Rodgers leave the Jets?
A: The Jets released him due to mobility concerns, financial reasons, and a desire to rebuild.
Q: Did Rodgers regret joining the Jets?
A: Publicly, Rodgers said he valued the experience and relationships, despite the challenges.
Q: Where is Rodgers now?
A: In 2025, he signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers on a one-year deal.
Q: Will 2025 be Rodgers’ final season?
A: Rodgers has hinted that this could be his last year in the NFL.
