3 best Aaron Rodgers alternatives for Jets if they fail to land Packers QB in 2023
Aaron Rodgers could be on the move during the 2023 NFL offseason as his future with the Green Bay Packers appears to be in jeopardy.
The Packers are reportedly willing to listen to trade offers for their superstar quarterback. Rodgers has been debating what he wants to do for the upcoming 2023 NFL season, but the possibility of him leaving Green Bay is gaining momentum.
The New York Jets currently seem to be the team leading the race in pursuit of acquiring Aaron Rodgers.
They recently sent a private plane with team executives to meet with the former NFL MVP after gaining permission from the Packers to speak with him. While nothing is official just yet, the theoretical speculation is starting to become a realistic opportunity.
The New York Jets have flown on Woody Johnson’s private plane to California to meet with Aaron Rodgers in person per sources. They land soon. (also reported by @RobDemovsky @DanGrazianoESPN)
The Green Bay Packers have given New York permission to speak with Rodgers.
Several hurdles still need to be cleared for the Jets to acquire Aaron Rodgers. He would need to approve them as a team he would waive his no-trade clause for, while the Packers would need to accept a trade package. Rodgers would also likely need to restructure his contract for the Jets to add him to their roster.
If any of these steps fail to be completed, then the potential trade will almost definitely fall through. If this is the case, the Jets will need to explore their options at quarterback once again. They announced their desire to add a veteran quarterback to replace Zach Wilson for the 2023 NFL season. If they can't land Aaron Rodgers, here are three of the best alternatives.
#3 - Jimmy Garoppolo
Jimmy Garoppolo has a ton of proven experience as a legitimate starting quarterback option. He made multiple trips to the NFL Playoffs as the starter for the San Francisco 49ers, including a Super Bowl appearance. He also has a connection to Jets head coach Robert Saleh, who previously served as the defensive coordinator for the 49ers.
#2 - Tom Brady
Tom Brady announced his retirement at the beginning of the 2023 NFL offseason. He did so as well last year before returning to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for another season. If he decides to again unretire this year, he will be an unrestricted free agent. The Jets could potentially pivot their focus away from Aaron Rodgers to another legend in Tom Brady.
#1 - Lamar Jackson
The Baltimore Ravens recently placed a non-exclusive franchise tag on Lamar Jackson. This means he's allowed to negotiate a contract with other teams, but the Ravens have the right to match any offer he receives. If the New York Jets are aggressive enough in pursuing Lamar Jackson, it's possible they could pry the former NFL MVP away from the Ravens.