Aaron Rodgers admits the curtain could fall on his iconic NFL career on Sunday when he plays in the New York Jets’ regular-season finale against the Miami Dolphins.
The Jets have nothing to play for at MetLife Stadium, holding a 4-12 record after a disastrous season. It feels inevitable that Rodgers’ two-season stay with the Jets will end in the offseason, with the four-time MVP failing to meet the lofty expectations that followed his trade from the Green Bay Packers.
Both head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas were the victims of mid-season firings, meaning the reset button will be pressed in the offseason – and 41-year-old Rodgers knows he is unlikely to be part of the franchise’s future.
Rodgers reportedly has his eyes on four potential landing spots – the Indianapolis Colts, Tennessee Titans, Las Vegas Raiders, and Cleveland Browns – if he continues playing next season, but he is not oblivious to the fact Sunday’s meeting with the Dolphins could be the last time he steps onto the field as a player. “Yeah, of course,” Rodgers told reporters on Wednesday when asked if his career could end this weekend.
“This game has given me a lot. 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.”
