The New York Jets are poised to part ways with Aaron Rodgers after a two-year experiment that ultimately failed to meet expectations. One report has even suggested the possibility of an unexpected return for a former Jets quarterback. Rodgers, who made his comeback this season after suffering a torn Achilles, had hopes of leading the Jets to their first playoff appearance in over a decade. However, the team struggled throughout the year, finishing with a disappointing 5-12 record. Their troubles were not confined to poor performances on the field; the Jets also dealt with significant internal strife, culminating in the firing of both their head coach and general manager.
In the wake of the season’s conclusion, which ended with a victory over the Miami Dolphins, Rodgers hinted that the Jets would likely be moving forward with a new quarterback for the 2025 season. Reflecting on the team’s future, Rodgers said, “I’m just more resigned to the reality of the situation,” 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 the full picture won’t likely emerge until the Jets finalize their choice for a new head coach and general manager, speculation is already building regarding potential quarterback replacements.
Nick Shook of NFL.com suggested that one possibility for the Jets could be a reunion with Sam Darnold. Darnold, who was drafted by the Jets as a first-round pick in 2018, has had an unpredictable career, with several stints at different teams, but he recently experienced a career resurgence with the Minnesota Vikings. Despite his past with the Jets, Shook named them among nine teams that could show interest in bringing Darnold back.
As unlikely as it might seem, Shook pointed out that the Jets are in desperate need of a quarterback and may find themselves in a tough position when it comes to selecting a top prospect in the upcoming draft. Holding the seventh overall pick, the Jets are not currently in a prime spot to secure one of the draft’s two top quarterback prospects. With Rodgers likely departing—whether via trade or retirement—the Jets may need to consider all options, including a potential return for Darnold.
However, Shook emphasized that any potential deal for Darnold would need to be at the right price, a detail that remains uncertain. Despite Darnold’s strong performance this season, which included a career-high in several categories, he did face difficulties in crucial moments. His struggles were particularly evident in the Vikings’ season-ending loss to the Detroit Lions and their playoff exit to the Los Angeles Rams. These performances could raise questions about his ability to consistently perform at a high level in New York, but with the Jets’ quarterback situation uncertain, they may still be willing to take a gamble on a familiar face.
The Jets’ quarterback dilemma reflects the broader uncertainty surrounding the team’s future. As they evaluate their leadership, both at the coaching and front-office levels, they will have to make key decisions about how to rebuild and which quarterback can lead them into the next phase of their franchise’s development. If Darnold were to return, it would mark a dramatic turn in his career, and perhaps a second chance for both him and the Jets to make things work.
