The New York Jets might finally be reaching a turning point when it comes to their quarterback situation, and Aaron Rodgers’ struggles could be the catalyst for change. Despite the high expectations that came with the four-time NFL MVP, his inconsistent play in the Jets’ 26-21 loss to the Seattle Seahawks is now putting his future with the team in question. Rodgers’ performance against Seattle was marred by missed throws, poor decisions, and an interception that defensive tackle Leonard Williams took back for a touchdown.
At one point, the Jets held a 21-7 lead, but a critical overthrow to Garrett Wilson, who was wide open in the end zone, followed by another poor throw, shifted the momentum. That sequence led to a 14-point swing in favor of Seattle, and from then on, the Jets’ offense was never the same. Rodgers’ ongoing struggles have been a major contributor to the team’s underwhelming 3-9 record this season. While the entire team shares blame for the poor results, Rodgers’ inability to elevate the Jets has been a significant factor.
When asked about the possibility of switching quarterbacks, interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich didn’t provide any firm assurances about Rodgers’ future. His response, “Not as of today,” was telling. There was no emphatic statement of confidence in Rodgers, suggesting the team is at least open to considering other options. This shift in tone is particularly noteworthy given reports that the Jets are expected to move on from Rodgers after the season.
Rodgers, ever the seasoned veteran, didn’t seem shocked by the shift in rhetoric. “I don’t know. We’ll figure that out when we have those conversations,” he said. “I felt like in ’18 there was a possibility for sure. In ’05 when I was a backup we were three-and-a-lot multiple times and didn’t make a change. Didn’t make a change in ’18 either. But, yeah, I’ll have conversations with Brick (Jeff Ulbrich) with what he’s thinking.”
If the Jets do decide to bench Rodgers, veteran Tyrod Taylor is the likely candidate to step in, though the team might also experiment with younger quarterbacks on the roster. Regardless of what happens next, it’s clear that the Jets are starting to question whether Rodgers can still be the leader they hoped for. Despite his storied career and future Hall of Fame status, the conversation in New York is shifting, and Rodgers could soon find himself on the bench.
