Aaron Rodgers Reportedly Down to Just Two Options as NFL Draft Approaches: What’s Next for the Four-Time MVP?

 As the 2025 NFL Draft looms just weeks away, the football world is once again centered around the enigmatic and unpredictable future of one of the league’s most accomplished quarterbacks—Aaron Rodgers. The four-time NFL MVP, Super Bowl champion, and future Hall of Famer is reportedly left with only two viable options for the upcoming NFL season.

With trade windows narrowing, front offices tightening up their draft strategies, and cap space growing more limited across the league, Rodgers’ next move could define not only the twilight of his storied career but also shape the quarterback landscape for multiple franchises.

In what has become an offseason tradition, the speculation surrounding Rodgers’ next steps has reached a fever pitch. But this year, unlike any before, the situation appears to be narrowing toward a final crossroads.

League insiders are now reporting that Rodgers is seriously considering just two destinations for the 2025 season—each with its own unique implications, risks, and potential rewards.

This article delves into the latest updates, potential landing spots, team dynamics, and what’s at stake for both Rodgers and the franchises involved.

From Green Bay to New York to… Where Now?

Aaron Rodgers’ NFL journey has been anything but conventional.

After spending 18 years with the Green Bay Packers, where he earned four MVP titles and one Super Bowl ring, Rodgers made the leap to the New York Jets ahead of the 2023 season in a blockbuster trade.

The move was expected to rejuvenate both the franchise and Rodgers himself, as the Jets looked to compete in the highly competitive AFC East.

But fate had other plans.

Rodgers’ debut season in New York was tragically cut short after suffering a torn Achilles just four snaps into the Week 1 matchup against the Buffalo Bills.

The injury was a gut punch to a franchise that had built its entire offensive scheme around him. Though Rodgers remained involved with the team throughout the season, mentoring backup Zach Wilson and staying active in the locker room, the Jets finished with a disappointing 7–10 record, missing the playoffs and raising new questions about the future.

Rodgers’ rehabilitation process has been rigorous and closely monitored. Now, as he nears full recovery and the NFL Draft draws closer, the urgency to finalize a decision has escalated—reportedly narrowing down to just two options that could define the closing act of his NFL career.

Option 1: Return to the New York Jets and Finish What He Started

The first and most familiar option on the table is a return to the New York Jets.

From a contractual standpoint, the Jets still retain Rodgers’ rights. He restructured his deal in 2023 to make room for other offensive assets like wide receiver Allen Lazard and running back Dalvin Cook.

Despite the injury, team owner Woody Johnson and general manager Joe Douglas have remained publicly committed to the veteran quarterback, signaling that Rodgers still has a place in the organization—should he want it.

Rodgers, for his part, has expressed unfinished business in New York. In interviews over the past several months, he’s spoken about his eagerness to prove himself in a Jets uniform, particularly after investing so much time in building chemistry with the young roster and offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett, with whom he shares a close relationship from his Green Bay days.

“I came here with a mission,” Rodgers said during a media appearance in February. “And that mission hasn’t changed just because of an injury.”

The Jets have a solid defense, headlined by All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner and defensive lineman Quinnen Williams.

With budding offensive talent in Garrett Wilson and Breece Hall, New York is arguably just one healthy quarterback away from contending in the AFC.

However, patience is wearing thin among fans and even some within the organization. There’s a growing sentiment that if Rodgers doesn’t fully commit before the draft, the Jets may be forced to pivot—potentially targeting a quarterback prospect or seeking out a veteran backup who could challenge Zach Wilson for the starting job.

Still, many insiders believe the Jets are Rodgers’ most likely destination if he chooses continuity and legacy over a fresh start elsewhere.

Option 2: Retirement and a Swift Move into Broadcasting or Ownership

While some have floated the possibility of a surprise trade to a team like the Las Vegas Raiders or Pittsburgh Steelers, most reports suggest that Rodgers’ only other realistic option at this stage is retirement.

And not just any retirement—one that could immediately segue into a media or business venture.

Rodgers has already dipped his toe into the broadcasting world, making memorable appearances as a guest host on Jeopardy! and showing charisma that networks have reportedly found appealing.

Multiple sources say that if he decides to walk away from football, he could land a multi-million-dollar broadcasting deal with a major network like FOX or Amazon Prime, potentially joining the likes of Tom Brady in redefining how retired quarterbacks remain in the spotlight.

Beyond media, Rodgers is also said to be exploring ownership opportunities.

He has hinted in the past at his interest in owning a professional sports franchise—be it in the NFL, NBA, or even international soccer.

With high-profile friends in the business world and an ever-growing net worth, Rodgers stepping into a boardroom instead of a locker room isn’t far-fetched.

Yet, even with all these possibilities, retirement doesn’t seem like Rodgers’ first choice.

“Aaron still has that fire,” said one anonymous NFL executive. “But if he doesn’t see a clear path to winning—or if his health doesn’t cooperate—he’s the type of guy who walks away on his own terms.”

What’s Holding Up the Decision?

So why hasn’t Rodgers made the final call yet?

Several factors are at play:

1. Health Evaluation: Despite optimistic updates, Rodgers’ full medical clearance has not yet been confirmed. Sources close to the quarterback say he wants to feel “100%” before committing to another grueling season.

2. Jets’ Draft Strategy: The Jets are reportedly evaluating quarterbacks in the 2025 draft. If they use a high pick on a QB, it could be a signal that the front office is preparing for life after Rodgers—potentially influencing his own decision.

3. Cap Space and Roster Flexibility: The Jets’ front office is juggling a tight salary cap. Rodgers returning would require some financial gymnastics to ensure the team can still build a competitive roster around him.

4. Desire for Control: Rodgers has historically valued his autonomy. Some insiders believe he’s waiting to see if the Jets front office gives him more say in roster decisions before making a commitment.

Public Reaction and League-Wide Impact

The NFL community has responded with its usual mix of fascination and fatigue to the latest Rodgers saga. Fans are split—some eager for the quarterback to return and complete his mission with the Jets, others ready for the team to move forward and draft a young quarterback.

“Rodgers brings star power, but at what cost?” tweeted one Jets fan. “This team can’t afford another year of uncertainty.”

Meanwhile, rival teams are watching closely. Should Rodgers retire, the AFC East becomes more open, potentially boosting the playoff chances of teams like the Miami Dolphins and Buffalo Bills.

If he returns, however, the entire dynamic of the division could shift, especially with New England in the early stages of a rebuild under a new head coach.

The Clock Is Ticking: NFL Draft Implications

With the NFL Draft set for April 25–27, Rodgers’ window to make a decision is rapidly closing.

The Jets will need clarity on his future before making critical draft-day decisions, particularly at quarterback and offensive line.

A last-minute announcement from Rodgers could either cement the Jets’ offseason strategy or throw it into chaos.

“This is not just about Aaron Rodgers,” said ESPN analyst Mina Kimes. “This is about how the Jets plan their future—how they draft, how they manage the cap, how they market their team. One decision affects everything.”

The Legacy Question

Regardless of what choice Rodgers ultimately makes, his legacy is already secure. With over 59,000 passing yards, 475 touchdown passes, and a Super Bowl ring, Rodgers has carved out one of the most impressive careers in modern NFL history.

But how he exits the game—and what he chooses to do next—will determine how he’s remembered in his final act.

Does he return for redemption in New York? Or does he walk away with grace, embracing a new chapter in media or ownership?

Final Thoughts: The Countdown Begins

With only two viable options left and the NFL Draft closing in, Aaron Rodgers stands at a career-defining crossroads. Will he return to the field and pursue a storybook comeback with the New York Jets, or will he ride off into the sunset to embark on new adventures beyond the gridiron?

Either way, the football world waits with bated breath.

Stay tuned. Rodgers’ decision could come any day now—and when it does, it will undoubtedly send shockwaves through the NFL.