Aaron Rodgers' Selective Gratitude Sparks Fresh Jets Controversy
Aaron Rodgers openly embraces Ayahuasca retreats. These spiritual journeys aim to release painful memories and foster positive outlooks. Can the quarterback truly achieve this personal transformation? Evidence suggests otherwise.
The New York Jets represent arguably the most difficult period in Rodgers' storied career. During his time with the team, the 42-year-old quarterback endured a devastating torn Achilles tendon that ended his 2023 season. The 2024 campaign brought further disappointment with a dismal 5-12 record. Then, explosive rumors about his conflict with former head coach Robert Saleh dominated sports headlines.
Press Conference Comments Revive Old Wounds
Rodgers recently held his final press conference for the 2025 season. This meeting followed the Pittsburgh Steelers' elimination from the NFL Playoffs by the Houston Texans in a Monday Night Football Wild Card Game. During this session, Rodgers reportedly made his lingering issues with the Jets unmistakably clear once more.
NFL aggregator and prominent sports media figure Dov Kleiman took immediate notice. Kleiman shared a clip from the press conference that captured Rodgers' telling remarks.
The veteran quarterback stated, "I was fortunate to play in an incredible football city for 18 years. I never took that experience for granted and truly enjoyed my time there. This situation has provided a beautiful conclusion to those first 18 years, allowing me to be here for this season. Pittsburgh is a special place. You find tradition, excellence, and all-time greats here. Just looking around the stadium tonight, seeing the fans, noticing there weren't many Texans supporters in attendance—that speaks volumes. Only a select few truly special places in the league possess this combination of tradition, town, and organization. I'm thankful to have played for two of them."
The Obvious Omission Speaks Volumes
Rodgers has played for three NFL franchises across his remarkable two-decade career. He spent 18 seasons with the Green Bay Packers from 2005 through 2022. His tenure with the New York Jets covered the 2023 and 2024 seasons. He joined the Pittsburgh Steelers for the 2025 campaign, and his one-year contract has now concluded, making him a free agent.
By specifically stating he felt "thankful to have played for two of them," Rodgers delivered a clear message. He appreciates his legendary years with the Green Bay Packers and values his recent time with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He pointedly excluded any mention of the New York Jets from his gratitude.
Fan Reactions Flood Social Media
How did football fans respond to this apparent display of favoritism? Social media platforms erupted with commentary.
One X user defended Rodgers' position, writing, "The Jets absolutely deserve this criticism. Look at their consistent failures season after season. The ownership group needs serious changes." Another user directed a jab at the Super Bowl MVP, commenting, "Aaron Rodgers really struggles with handling subtle criticism."
A third observer labeled the quarterback's remarks "Classic Rodgers shade." A fourth user directly named the ten-time Pro Bowler, declaring, "He remains the undisputed king of passive-aggressive commentary!" A fifth fan simply stated, "He absolutely had to make that comment."
The episode underscores how Rodgers' painful chapter with the Jets continues to cast a long shadow, even as he attempts to focus on new beginnings.
