Sunday concludes another forgettable season for the New York Jets, who are headed toward an offseason of change.
Those changes could include a departure for Aaron Rodgers, a possibility the four-time MVP acknowledged Wednesday.
"I'm just more resigned to the reality of the situation," Rodgers said, via ESPN. "I think there's going to be change here, and if I'm a part of the change, then I just want to make sure everybody knows I have nothing but gratitude for my time here."
While Rodgers' future is uncertain, he may not have one in football at all. At 41 years old, there's a good chance Rodgers could retire, a reality from which he isn't shying away from.
That would also mean this Sunday could be his final game in the NFL.
"This game has given me a lot," he said. "I've given a lot back to it, and I'm thankful for it. I won't be thinking about that on game day. I'll just be enjoying this. I'm trying to stay in the moment, but, of course, it's been a long career. I'm really proud of what I've been able to be a part of, what I've been able to accomplish, and I'm also looking forward to a nice mental and physical rest."
Rodgers has notoriously embraced the time afforded by the offseason, using plenty of it before making significant career decisions. This time around, though, it seems the power is out of his hands, at least as it pertains to the Jets.
Rodgers simply didn't play well enough to convince anyone New York should prioritize retaining him in 2025. If the Jets are truly going to turn the page toward the future, they're unlikely to do so with a 41-year-old under center unless he's solely a bridge quarterback.
"I'm disappointed about the performance with myself and as a team, but really thankful for the opportunity," Rodgers said. "If I feel good coming back and they want to make another run at this, that'd be fantastic, but I'm not naive to the situation we're in."
Rodgers also needs to decide whether he wants to continue playing pro football regardless of how the Jets decide to proceed. He's enjoyed relative success in the last six weeks, but also encountered some significant struggles in his last two outings. His body language in these disappointing performances also suggests he's not having much fun playing the game right now, which is understandable given how poorly the Jets have fared in 2024.
"I need a break, mentally," he said.
We likely won't know by next week whether Rodgers is going to play in 2025. We do know one truth, though: His 2024 Jets season ends Sunday.
We'll see if that's the end of the road, or merely another January conclusion.
