The New York Jets are still grappling with the financial aftermath of the Aaron Rodgers era, a burden that will persist for the next two years. According to a report by AtoZ Sports, the Jets designated Rodgers as a post-June 1 release, saving $9.5 million in cap space for 2025 but incurring a $14 million dead-cap hit this year and a massive $35 million in 2026. This move, while necessary, underscores the costly legacy of Rodgers’ tenure, which began with sky-high expectations but ended in disappointment.
Rodgers, acquired from the Green Bay Packers in 2023, was supposed to be the missing piece for a Super Bowl-contending Jets team. However, his 2023 season was cut short by a torn Achilles just four plays in, and the 2024 campaign, despite his return, saw the Jets finish 5-12, two games worse than the previous year.
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The report notes, “It couldn’t have gone much worse,” encapsulating the disappointment that now translates into financial strain.
The post-June 1 designation spreads the pain but doesn’t erase it. “It’s a costly move, but one that would’ve been even more expensive had the Jets waited another year,” the report states, referencing Rodgers’ $35 million option bonus that would have triggered if he remained on the roster past Week 1 of 2025.
A cautionary tale of salary cap management
Instead, the Jets opted to cut ties now, knowing the salary cap will rise in 2026, making the impact slightly less severe. However, the dead-cap figures-$14 million in 2025 and $35 million in 2026-are a stark reminder of the risks taken when betting on a 40-year-old quarterback.
New Jets head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey, hired in January 2025, inherited this mess. Their decision to move on from Rodgers reflects a shift in strategy, focusing on youth and flexibility, as seen with the addition of Justin Fields. Yet, the Rodgers saga isn’t over. The financial hangover will influence roster decisions, contract negotiations, and the team’s competitiveness for the next two seasons. As the Jets look to rebuild, the shadow of Rodgers looms large, a cautionary tale of high stakes and higher costs in the NFL.
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