The NY Jets just made one last move to shut the door on the Aaron Rodgers era

The New York Jets officially moved on from the Aaron Rodgers era last month, releasing the four-time MVP just over a year after acquiring him in one of the most highly anticipated moves in franchise history.

Rodgers’ time in New York was short-lived and ultimately disappointing, headlined by a torn Achilles he suffered just four snaps into the 2023 season. What was meant to be a Super Bowl-contending run never even got off the ground.

The Rodgers experiment was a worthwhile gamble on paper. It was a calculated swing for a franchise desperate to return to relevance. But in execution, it became just another what-if chapter in Jets history. And with the team now retooled and reenergized, they’re finally ready to turn the page — for good.

That became clearer than ever on Monday, when the Jets officially handed out Rodgers’ old No. 8 jersey to newly signed safety Andre Cisco. It was a quiet move, but a symbolic one. Consider it the final nail in the coffin for the Aaron Rodgers era in New York.

The NY Jets have already given out Aaron Rodgers' jersey number

With Rodgers gone, the Jets wasted little time choosing their new direction. The team brought in quarterback Justin Fields, a former first-round pick whose career has been defined more by potential than production to this point.

While Fields has yet to establish himself as a long-term starter, the Jets are hoping that a change of scenery can unlock the player many believed he could be coming out of Ohio State. At the very least, he was a worthy upside swing in a lackluster quarterback market.

Fields isn’t the only new face tasked with helping turn the franchise around. The Jets handed the keys of the operation to new head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey this offseason.

Glenn brings leadership and familiarity with the organization, while Mougey arrives from a successful run with the Denver Broncos. Together, they represent the new era of Jets football — one that has swiftly moved on from its previous regime.

This isn’t about salvaging the past anymore. The Jets aren’t waiting on aging veterans or hoping for short-term fixes. They’ve made it clear that this is a new era with a new core, and the goal is achieving long-term, sustainable success.

The move to Fields, paired with the front office and coaching staff overhaul, reflects a team that's ready to move forward and leave the Rodgers era in the rearview. Now, there's no mistaking it — Rodgers is gone.

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