Aaron Rodgers Cut Loose: Which Teams Will Gamble on the Future Hall of Famer in 2025?

The announcement from the New York Jets officially marked the end of an era, signaling that they would be moving in a new direction at quarterback in 2025. This decision came after a tumultuous season for Aaron Rodgers, who was expected to help turn the Jets into a contender. Instead, the 2024 campaign ended with a disappointing 5-12 record, and questions surrounding Rodgers’ future as a player lingered.

Despite the Jets’ announcement, it’s not the last we’ve heard of Rodgers. According to Albert Breer of SI.com, Rodgers expressed a “tentative intention” to continue his NFL career into 2025. The veteran quarterback made it clear to Jets’ general manager Darren Mougey and head coach Aaron Glenn that he had “unfinished business” and was not yet ready to retire. This message left the Jets with the impression that Rodgers still had the drive to play, even after an injury-riddled season.

For Rodgers, 2024 was a year filled with high hopes, which quickly turned into frustrations. After returning from a major Achilles injury, his performance was underwhelming. Despite his legendary status, Rodgers finished the season with one of the lowest completion percentages (63.0%) and passing success rates (43.9%) of his career. While much of the blame fell on the team’s lack of success and the firing of head coach Robert Saleh, Rodgers’ performance also raised concerns.

In his postseason meeting with Jets leadership, Rodgers showed considerable self-awareness, acknowledging that the organization may need to go in a different direction. The Jets’ decision to part ways wasn’t due to a lack of confidence in his abilities, but rather the difference in timelines between the franchise’s future plans and Rodgers’ current trajectory. Nevertheless, New York’s loss could be another team’s gain as the future Hall of Famer looks for a new opportunity.

While it’s likely that Rodgers will be a post-June 1 cut, the Jets are expected to allow the quarterback and his representation to engage with interested teams before his official free agency debut. Given Rodgers’ age (he’ll be 41 in 2025) and his less-than-stellar 2024 performance, it’s unclear how many teams will be eager to make a move. However, Rodgers is known for his desire to compete for championships, so he’ll undoubtedly be looking for a team that is in “win-now” mode.

So, which teams will take a gamble on Aaron Rodgers in 2025?

Potential Suitors for Aaron Rodgers

1. Las Vegas Raiders
   The Raiders are in the midst of a quarterback search, and Rodgers could provide the veteran presence they desperately need. With a talented roster and the urgency to win, the Raiders could offer Rodgers the opportunity to prove he still has what it takes to lead a playoff contender.

2. Indianapolis Colts
   The Colts have a young roster with potential, but they need stability at the quarterback position. With a strong offensive line and a developing defense, Indianapolis could be an intriguing landing spot for Rodgers. He could provide the leadership and expertise needed to elevate the team to the next level.

3. Tennessee Titans
   The Titans’ quarterback situation has been unstable, and Rodgers could give them the veteran leadership that they’ve been missing. With a solid running game and defense, Tennessee might offer Rodgers a chance to make another playoff run.

4. San Francisco 49ers
   The 49ers’ offense is one of the most dynamic in the NFL, and with Rodgers at the helm, it could become even more potent. If San Francisco is looking for a proven winner to take them over the hump, Rodgers could be their guy, especially considering his ability to perform in high-pressure situations.

Rodgers’ Legacy in the Making

While Rodgers’ 2024 campaign may have been underwhelming, the future Hall of Famer still has the opportunity to add to his legendary career. He’s currently seventh in career passing yards and could easily climb to fifth with a healthy season in 2025. Additionally, with just a few more touchdowns, Rodgers could surpass Brett Favre for fourth on the all-time list and even chase down Peyton Manning’s third-place spot.

Though his time with the Jets is over, Rodgers’ legacy remains intact, and there will likely be at least one team willing to take a chance on him. Whether he can return to his MVP form remains to be seen, but Rodgers’ determination to prove himself will surely make 2025 one of the most intriguing seasons in recent memory for the veteran quarterback.