Former New York Jets quarterback and current NFL analyst Boomer Esiason shared his thoughts on the WFAN “Boomer and Gio” program regarding Aaron Rodgers’ potential influence on the Jets’ quarterback situation for the upcoming 2024 season.
“The Jets have to do what’s in the best interest of the team, not in the best interest of one specific player. Aaron Rodgers is not a 25-year-old making $50M a year. He’s a 40-year-old coming off (a torn) Achilles. You better have someone back there that you trust. It doesn’t matter whether Aaron Rodgers likes him or not. You gotta get a real guy in here if he has to play three or four games.”
Esiason highlighted Rodgers’ connection with Zach Wilson and the apparent desire of Jets owner Woody Johnson to keep Rodgers content.
This dynamic led to Wilson starting the previous season as the backup quarterback. However, Rodgers’ unfortunate injury just four offensive snaps into the season opener resulted in Wilson assuming the starting role, which ultimately did not yield favorable results as he struggled before being benched in Week 11.
Reports have emerged indicating a strained relationship between Wilson and Rodgers over the course of the season. With Johnson openly acknowledging the team’s need for a backup quarterback, it appears the Jets may explore options involving Wilson, potentially before or shortly after the upcoming draft.
Considering head coach Robert Saleh’s record and the importance of Rodgers’ endorsement in his retention, Esiason expressed concerns about Rodgers’ ability to provide the Jets with a full season of starts, given his recent injury history.
While Esiason’s concerns are valid, it’s likely that Johnson and general manager Joe Douglas will consult Aaron Rodgers before making any decisions regarding the team’s quarterback situation. Ultimately, the success or failure of the 2024 Jets may hinge on Rodgers’ health and performance.
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