Aaron Rodgers has long been known for taking digs at the Chicago Bears, and even after his trade from the Green Bay Packers to the New York Jets almost two years ago, he hasn’t lost his edge when it comes to the rival NFC North team. During his recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show on December 23, Rodgers once again took aim at the Bears, referencing how their coaching staff often made beating Green Bay a central goal when they were hired. Rodgers pointed out that while the Packers didn’t experience as many coaching changes, there was an unspoken understanding within the organization that a yearly sweep of the Bears was almost expected.
Rodgers did acknowledge that Green Bay didn’t always sweep Chicago, but he emphasized the dominant record the Packers had over the Bears throughout his career. His ongoing focus on the past raises the question: is he clinging to these memories because his current tenure in New York has been far less successful? After suffering an Achilles injury in the 2023 season, Rodgers returned in 2024 with high hopes, but the Jets have struggled as much as the Bears. Both teams are sitting at 4-9 after Week 14, with the Bears enduring a nine-game losing streak and the Jets themselves going through a 1-9 stretch earlier in the year.
For Rodgers, who has accumulated four MVP awards and a Super Bowl ring, this level of struggle is unfamiliar. It’s a humbling reminder that winning in the NFL is never guaranteed, and Rodgers’ usual bravado seems out of place amid his current team’s challenges. Despite his ongoing taunts, Bears fans have learned to cope with Rodgers’ antics, knowing that their team’s future holds promise. Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams has shown flashes of brilliance despite some struggles, and the Bears are gearing up to hire a new head coach, with offensive minds like Detroit Lions’ Ben Johnson reportedly intriguing the team. A new coach could help unlock Williams’ potential and elevate the Bears’ offense.
Meanwhile, Chicago’s front office made some missteps in the offseason, prioritizing skill positions over the offensive line, which has left them with one of the league’s most porous units. However, they are expected to focus on strengthening the line in the upcoming draft and free agency, which could drastically change their outlook for 2025.
For Rodgers, who will turn 42 next season, his future in New York is uncertain. There is no clear indication that the Jets plan to keep him for the final year of his contract, especially with tensions mounting within the organization. Recent public criticism from receiver Garrett Wilson, combined with reports of dysfunction—like the influence of Jets owner Woody Johnson’s sons on team decisions—suggest that Rodgers could be looking for a new team as soon as March.
