NY Jets wanted to set stricter rules for Aaron Rodgers if he returned in 2025

The NY Jets reportedly informed Aaron Rodgers last week that the team would be going in a different direction at quarterback this offseason. Rodgers has played his final game as a member of the Jets in a move that seems like it was more mutual than initially reported.

The Jets' decision to move on from Rodgers was a complicated one that entailed a variety of factors related to his contract, his increasing age and health concerns, his potential scheme fit, and his influence over the organization.

While money was certainly a major factor, the Jets' new regime — led by head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey — really seemed to harp on that last reason.

The Athletic's Dianna Russini reported on Tuesday that the Jets attempted to set boundaries with Rodgers during their meeting. The Jets made it clear that Rodgers would "have to attend all training camp practices" and that he'd "no longer be permitted to do his Pat McAfee Show appearances."

Evidently, the two sides had differing thoughts on the direction of the franchise moving forward.

The new NY Jets regime wanted to treat Aaron Rodgers as an equal

Rodgers' influence over the Jets' organization was a notable criticism of the last regime. Former general manager Joe Douglas and head coach Robert Saleh infamously allowed Rodgers to skip two days of mandatory minicamp for a pre-planned vacation to Egypt.

The team also allowed him to make weakly appearances on The Pat McAfee Show, during which he'd often discuss internal issues with the Jets. Rodgers had previously been critical of the "distractions" permeating within the organization.

Glenn and Mougey seem to agree with Rodgers' assertion, although it's unclear if he believes he should be held to that same standard. That's an issue the Jets are looking to fix in 2025.

The reality is that Aaron Rodgers was more than just the Jets' quarterback — he was treated differently than everyone else. Held to a vastly different standard, he was placed on a pedestal and given privileges no other player on the roster had.

The Jets made it clear that, if Rodgers wanted to return in 2025, the dynamic between the four-time MVP quarterback and his coaches would have to be different. It seems the two parties didn't see eye to eye on the issue.

A mutual split is likely in the best interest of both Rodgers and the Jets. Rodgers, if he wants to continue playing, can ideally find a new home with a team that will be more willing to accommodate his high demands. The Jets can start fresh with a new regime and a new culture — one that holds every player accountable for their individual actions.

In the end, the Jets' decision to move on from Rodgers signals a shift in philosophy — a philosophy that prioritizes structure and accountability over star-driven exceptions. Whether it proves to be the right move remains to be seen, but both sides now have a chance to chart a new course.

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