Allen Lazard makes feelings known about Aaron Rodgers' retirement speculations
The speculation surrounding Aaron Rodgers' potential retirement has taken center stage. New York Jets wide receiver Allen Lazard shared a candid perspective on his quarterback's penchant for generating headlines.
Lazard and Rodgers share a bond that stretches back to 2019 when Rodgers first noticed the then-practice squad receiver during Packers training camp. Their connection has been nothing short of transformative for Lazard's career.
During a recent interview with ESPN's Rich Cimini, which was released on December 14, Lazard addressed the Rodgers retirement rumors.
"I think he's just doing it for the headlines and the clicks and the attention," Lazard said, smiling. "But with him, you never know."
But after his somewhat joking reply, Lazard got a bit more earnest about the possibility of Rodgers calling it a career.
"If it ends up being that," Lazard said, "I've had a hell of a career because of that man."
Since their first connection, Lazard has become a key part of Rodgers' offensive arsenal. He's caught 23 touchdown passes from Rodgers, which puts him sixth on the QB's all-time list. Their unique touchdown celebration involves forming a triangle with their hands, symbolizing Lazard's mantra: "At The Top."
This season, Lazard has caught 31 passes for 430 yards and five touchdowns for the Jets. He is in the top three on the team in the latter two stats.
Aaron Rodgers' return to Jets a 'long shot,' per insider
While the retirement talk hasn't gained substantial momentum, the speculation continues. A couple of weeks ago, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported that Aaron Rodgers is considered a "long shot" to return to the Jets in 2025, adding another layer of intrigue to the quarterback's future.
"Those conversations will happen with the new power brokers after the year," Rapoport said, "but that is my understanding of where it stands right now."
Rodgers has one more year left on his Jets contract after this season, with no more guaranteed money. He is also due a $35 million option bonus if he returns.
Despite the uncertainty, Rodgers' performance this season remains decent. He is tied for eighth in the NFL with 20 touchdown passes and ranks 13th with 2,966 passing yards.