Aaron Rodgers Reveals Frustrations Over Jets Departure

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — Aaron Rodgers expressed his frustrations on Thursday regarding his abrupt exit from the Jets, critiquing the team’s handling of his departure.

The 41-year-old quarterback, who joined the Jets in 2023, claimed that a meeting on February 9 about his future was cut short unexpectedly. Rodgers flew from California to New Jersey, anticipating a lengthy discussion, only for the meeting to last just 40 minutes. According to Rodgers, Jets coach Aaron Glenn abruptly left the meeting to consult with general manager Darren Mougey.

“That was kind of strange… I think we are going to have this long conversation. I’ve flown across the country and 20 seconds in, he goes and he leans to the edge of his seat and says, ‘So, you want to play football?’ And I’m like, ‘Yeah, I’m interested.’ And he was like, ‘We’re going in a different direction at quarterback,’” Rodgers recounted.

Rodgers admitted he was not surprised by the decision, but was taken aback by its delivery. “I was kind of shocked. Not shocked because I didn’t think it was a possibility, but shocked because I just flew across the country, and you could’ve told me this over the phone,” he said.

Throughout the meeting, Rodgers claimed that Glenn’s primary focus was on the messaging surrounding the announcement, rather than discussing his role. “I don’t give a s—- about the messaging. Why?” he questioned.

Rodgers also indicated there were concerns that his presence on the roster could undermine Glenn’s authority. “It was a very strange meeting, for sure. There was no me pleading, ‘Please have me on the team.’ I don’t want to be a part of that. It was already a debacle in some cases. That whole situation was crazy. That was a little rogue by the head coach,” he added.

After the meeting, Rodgers spoke with Mougey and praised Christopher Johnson, the brother of owner Woody Johnson, for the decision allowing for a fresh start. Meanwhile, Glenn expressed frustration at the media’s focus on the quarterback, stating, “I don’t want to disrespect any of the other players we have on our team. It kind of pisses me off… All those guys need to be respected as far as winning games also.”

Rodgers spent two seasons with the Jets, with the first ending prematurely due to an Achilles injury. The second season resulted in a disappointing record of 5-12. The Jets made substantial changes to their coaching staff following the disappointing 2024 season, firing head coach Robert Saleh and GM Joe Douglas, and hiring Glenn and Mougey.

As for his future, Rodgers has not made a decision on where he will play next, or if he will play in 2025, citing serious personal issues. Should he choose to return to the NFL, the Pittsburgh Steelers appear to be a likely destination.

Rodgers discussed these developments during an appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show” on April 17, 2025.