New York Jets coach eyes 'veteran quarterback' as Aaron Rodgers dream continues

27 January 2023 , 15:55

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Aaron Rodgers is wanted by the New York Jets

Aaron Rodgers continues to be linked with a trade to the New York Jets, and now head coach Robert Saleh has admitted they're looking for a "veteran quarterback".

The Green Bay Packers star has been teasing a potential exit for a few seasons now, but when he signed a new three-year extension last March, fans assumed that he would see out his career at Lambeau Field. But a poor season has led to speculation, and Rodgers stated that "it could be time to step away" when asked about his future with the franchise.

The Jets have a stacked roster, and a talented offense, but the quarterback position really let them down last season. Amid all the links and speculation surrounding the Jets and Rodgers, Saleh has now officially confirmed they're looking for a veteran to come in and lead them.

What started off as dream for the Jets, could very quickly become a reality, and it looks as though they're doing everything possible to facilitate a move for Rodgers. Firstly, Jets legend Joe Namath offered to unretire his no.12 jersey for Rodgers to wear, and on Thursday the franchise hired former Denver Broncos head coach Nathaniel Hackett as their new offensive coordinator.

Hackett was the OC at the Packers between 2019-2021, and helped Rodgers clinch the MVP award - something that the quarterback wants to win again before retiring. So the roster is there, as is an OC Rodgers likes to work with, and also his iconic no.12 is exclusively up for grabs if he joins.

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But if that wasn't enough, Saleh has now officially come out and said that the Jets are looking for a veteran quarterback. The Jets are still putting their faith in Zach Wilson for the long-term, but an experienced professional for the immediate future is required to help develop the youngster.

"The quarterback position, obviously, with all the different interviews was the No. 1 concern and rightfully so," Saleh explained. "It was simple: We're committed to finding a veteran.

Robert Saleh has indirectly hinted that the Jets want Aaron Rodgers

"We didn't get into names. … It was talked about that we do plan on bringing in a veteran quarterback if we can. We do want to continue working with Zach and continue to develop him."

Rodgers is in a great position, as he can either see his $150 million contract out over the next two seasons with the Packers, or take an opportunity elsewhere. The Packers won't want to see their franchise legend go, but it's been reported that they'd be open to trade discussions if they can acquire two first-round draft picks in return.

The 39-year-old is still immensely talented, and it was an off-year in all departments for the Packers. They struggled to deal with the departure of Davante Adams, and it was an establishing year for a bunch of rookies.

Some Packers fans are keen to see Jordan Love get a chance as the starting quarterback, and it seems as though Rodgers is closer to leaving than ever. It'll be a blow to see him leave, but the cap space it would open up with additional picks may be tempting for moving forward.

Joseph McBride