Watching the off-field drama unfolding with the New York Jets is nothing short of watching a ‘Hell’s Kitchen‘ episode. What’s so similar, you ask? There may not be a cussing Gordon Ramsey present, but the Jets keep firing their staff every time we blink. Okay, yes, maybe we’re overreacting, but QB Aaron Rodgers is also concerned with all that has “transpired in the last two weeks” with the Jets. His concerns with the team are valid. But his fans are even more concerned about his future not only with the Jets but also in the NFL.

So, what really happened in the last two weeks with the Jets? Well, they continued cleaning the house and fired General Manager Joe Douglas after their seventh loss on Sunday. A point to note here – Douglas is the man who brought Rodgers to the Jets. So when reporters asked him why he is “not sure” about playing next season, he said, “I think if you look at what transpired in those last two weeks (is) Joe got axed. Joe brought me here (to the Jets). There’s uncertainty with everybody on the staff. ”

With all the changes and the team’s poor 3-8 performance so far, does Rodgers fit in the team’s long-term plan? “I’m not naive to what the situation is. If a new GM comes in and they don’t retain Brick (offensive line coach Keith Carter), I have to fit in those plans,” says Rodgers. But it’s not that he wouldn’t like to continue playing for the Jets. They are his “first option” he reiterates. “I’d love to play here if I end up deciding to play. But there’s gotta be the want to want to bring me back.”

At 40, doubts arising with the team to retain him, is not questionable. He’s one of the oldest quarterbacks this year, and the wear and tear is starting to show. As of now, Aaron Rodgers has played in 11 games, having thrown for 2,442 yards with 17 touchdowns and 7 interceptions. He has solid numbers, but his ability to extend plays down the field is withering.

Is it time to hang up the cleats for Aaron Rodgers?

The veteran QB is the four-time MVP, but this year, he has been a bit off his rhythm. Well, not just a bit. It’s possibly been the worst season of his career. He is currently averaging 6.4 yards per pass attempt – a career low for him. Plus, factor in his injuries issues with his knees, ankle, and hamstring. To top that, this comes right after his season-ending injury during his first game in the 2023 NFL season.

His performance aside, let’s talk about the real numbers here. Rodgers may not want to retire yet and continue with the Jets. But this might be a little heavy on the team’s pockets.

For the current season, he will count $23.5 million against the salary cap. And if his relationship with the Jets is cut short, the dent will be a massive $49 million dead money on the cap. But that scenario plays out only if they let him go before the start of June next year. And if they wait until after, the penalty will be $14 million for the upcoming season. If you thought that was it, you’re wrong. Aside from that, they will also see a $35 million hit in 2026. So, he sure will be a gamble. But is that gamble worth taking?

For now, the focus will be on the playoffs. And let’s be real, the curtain will soon drop on that dream. But the cameras will continue rolling in their off-season. Will the Jets keep their trust in Rodgers once again? Only time will tell.