The New York Jets have completed a sensational trade with the Green Bay Packers to secure the services four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers.
On Monday, it was confirmed that Rodgers is heading to New York in exchange for the 13th overall pick, a 2023 second-round pick (no.42), a sixth-round pick (no.207) and a conditional second round pick that becomes a first if the quarterback plays 65 percent of snaps. The Jets finally land Rodgers, as well as the 15th overall pick and a fifth-round selection (no.70).
Rodgers was drafted by the Packers in 2005 before assuming the starting role from Brett Favre in 2008, with his Hall of Fame predecessor also opting to join the Jets after an iconic stint in Green Bay. Many thought Favre’s ill-fated tenure in New York would have served as a warning to Rodgers about moving to New York, but he gave the switch the go ahead after holding productive meetings with the Jets brass. The Super Bowl XLV MVP was offered the iconic no.12 after receiving the blessing of legendary Jets former quarterback Joe Namath, but he will reportedly wear no.8 - his shirt in college.
Last month, Jets owner Woody Johnson, general manager Joe Douglas, head coach Robert Saleh and offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett flew to Rodgers’ native California to gauge his interest. After the meeting, there was optimism on both sides with Rodgers expressing curiosity in a move to the Big Apple.
Jets owner Woody Johnson made it clear throughout the offseason that his franchise was keen on securing a high-profile quarterback for the 2023 campaign after Zach Wilson’s development slowed the progress of an exciting, young team. The Jets enjoyed a promising 2022 season only for poor quarterback play to derail a playoff push as the team finished 7-10 - and bottom of the AFC East.
Ultimately, the sensational trade is exciting for all NFL fans as Rodgers will duel will other star quarterbacks in the form of Buffalo Bills ace Josh Allen and Tua Tagovailoa - the NFL’s 2022 leader in passer rating - of the Miami Dolphins. Rodgers will also take on New England Patriots defensive mastermind Bill Belichick twice a year to complete an intriguing division, which was arguably the best in the NFL last season.
Prior to the deal, Rodgers flirted with the idea of retirement and joining another franchise like the Jets as well as a return to the Packers for a 19th season. The Jets decided to pursue Rodgers after they missed out on fellow veteran quarterback Derek Carr, who signed a four-year deal worth $150million with the New Orleans Saints.
Last offseason, Rodgers signed a monster new contract with the Packers to earn $50.27m per year through the 2026 season, when he will be 43 years of age. The contract means the veteran is currently the highest-paid player in the NFL, ahead of Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson ($50m).
The 2022 season was a difficult one for Rodgers as he finished the year with 12 interceptions - the most he threw in a single campaign since 2008, his first year as a starter - while he also failed to post a single 300-yard passing game for the first time in his career. His passer rating of 91.1 was also the lowest since he took there reins in Green Bay as he led the team to an 8-9 record, missing the playoffs as they finished third in the NFC North.
