The New York Jets fans can’t catch a break. After a pathetic regular season of a 5-12 record, it was disappointing for their veteran QB Aaron Rodgers as well. Rodgers expressed, “I put my heart into this and I wanted it really bad and it didn’t work this year,” while talking about the disastrous season. That’s not it. One of their key players has given a clear statement about his plans.

The 34-year-old offensive tackle of the Jets Tyron Smith has hinted at potential retirement from the league. When asked about his future, Tyron Smith said, “I’ve got to make a lot of decisions going forward. Within the next couple weeks, I have to decide what I’m going to do as far as playing or not playing,” and cleared the hazy atmosphere around his future in the next season. Tyron is a champ, so what made the Jets $6.5 million OT even talk about ending his career?

Well, the answer could be simple- his neck injury. The offensive tackle sustained a serious neck injury during the Jets’ crushing 31-6 loss to the Arizona Cardinals. According to ESPN’s senior writer Rich Cimini also, that nasty blow to Smith’s neck was not only a big hit to the season but his fantastic career. Talking about the OT, the interim coach Jeff Ulbrich said, “There’s not enough improvement at this point. And it’s really become apparent that we might have to do what’s best for Tyron,” while talking to reporters in the first week of December 2024.

The 9th overall pick of the NFL 2011 draft started his career with the Dallas Cowboys. He spent 8 freaking years with the $97,600,000 contract. The contract extension ended in the 2023 offseason and Tyron Smith landed in New York to join Aaron Rodgers. With the Jets, Smith signed a $6,500,000 worth contract for one year, as a free agent, which also included the signing bonus of $4,500,000. Tyron Smith earned a two million dollar base salary for 2024. But he remained on the injury report. Sadly, there are fewer chances Tyron Smith will return to join the QB Rodgers on the field.

But wait… Aaron Rodgers also dropped bombs when asked about his future with the Jets and talking about his potential retirement.

Aaron Rodgers’ hazy future in the NFL

The 41-year-old Jets quarterback has performed not so great this season. Rodgers is 7th in the league with 28 touchdowns and threw 11 interceptions. And he ended the season with a 48.2 quarterback rating. Though Rodgers is kicking it at this crucial stage of his life and career, he gave the football world hints about his future in the league.

The Super Bowl champion and four-time NFL MVP talked clearly about his strength and future. After the week 18 game, he said, “I know I can still play and do the things I need to do to be successful… It comes down to the desire on their side and ultimately my desire… I’ve got to take some time mentally and physically to rest and relax.” In addition to this, Rodgers ended the discussions about his future when he said, “I just need some time away to think about my future in the game. And my future here if they want me to be a part of the next phase.” 

Critics have also faulted Rodgers for negotiating his contract to remain with the Jets. Well, after all, it’s his personal take and choice about a career. But with the next regular season, fans eagerly await to see what lies ahead for Aaron Rodgers.