Aaron Rodgers trade: 3 Jets players Packers should absolutely dig their heels in for
Aaron Rodgers recently stated that he intends to play for the New York Jets during the 2023 NFL season. He's been linked to many teams this offseason and is focused on being traded to a new team by the Green Bay Packers.
The New York Jets have emerged as the clear frontrunners. It seems to be more a matter of when he's traded to them at this point, rather than if he's traded.
While Aaron Rodgers has a full no-trade clause built into his current contract, he seems eager to waive it in favor of being dealt to the Jets. Representatives from the franchise flew out to California to meet with him personally after receiving permission to do so from the Packers.
The meeting must have gone well as the two teams are reportedly in negotiations for trade compensation.
The Jets have made it clear that they are seeking an established veteran to replace Zach Wilson as their starting quarterback for the 2023 NFL season. Rodgers can accomplish this goal for them.
The Packers appear ready to give Jordan Love a chance to prove his worth as their starter. He was selected in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft and has been patiently awaiting his opportunity.
All of the various factors, as well as each team's apparent goals this year, are what make this trade highly likely to be executed during the offseason. The biggest question now is what exactly the Packers will be looking for in exchange for Aaron Rodgers.
It's likely that they will require draft compensation, but may also be looking to add current players as they make a push for the NFL Playoffs this year.
If the Packers are, in fact, interested in adding players to a potential trade package, here are three Jets players they should be targeting.
#1 - Corey Davis
Corey Davis was rumored to be a potential salary cap casualty for the Jets during the 2023 NFL offseason. While he still currently remains on the roster, he may not be around for long.
If the Jets acquire Aaron Rodgers, they will need to create additional salary cap space. Moving on from Davis creates more than $10 million in flexibility for the Jets.
Further contributing to the idea that Corey Davis could be on his way out of New York is the Jets' current signing of Allen Lazard. The two veterans have similar playing styles, including solid route running and solid blocking skills. Their similar profiles also suggest that the Packers could be interested in acquiring Davis as a replacement for Lazard.
#2 - Elijah Moore
Elijah Moore expressed frustration with his role within the Jets' offense during the 2022 NFL season. While Aaron Rodgers provides a massive upgrade at quarterback, Moore's role may further be diminished during the 2023 NFL season.
Signing Allen Lazard and the likely addition of Randall Cobb makes their depth chart crowded behind emerging star Garrett Wilson.
It makes sense for Moore to potentially want a new team, while he's become relatively expendable for the Jets.
He also fits perfectly into what the Packers should be looking for in the position. He's still just 23 years old and could form a youthful promising trio with Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs for Jordan Love in their passing game.
#3 - Tyler Conklin
The Packers recently lost Robert Tonyan during the 2023 NFL free agency period, creating a massive need for them at their tight end position. Tyler Conklin has established himself as a reliable veteran option over the last few years, making him a potential target for them in the Aaron Rodgers trade.
The Jets are also likely to sign Marcedes Lewis as a result of him being on Aaron Rodgers' apparent wishlist for his potential trade to New York. This means Conklin could potentially be available if the Packers are interested in him.