Aaron Rodgers put together a massively disappointing season for the New York Jets this year after his highly anticipated return from injury. They were expected to be playoff contenders, but just have a 4-12 record with one game remaining.
This has resulted in much speculation about Rodgers' future in New York as it is unclear if he will be their quarterback for the 2025 NFL season. All options appear open, including the possibility of the Jets moving on from him. Here are some potential replacements if they decide to do so, or if he retires.
Aaron Rodgers replacements for New York Jets in 2025
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#1 - Jordan Travis
If the New York Jets decide to focus on their future rather than trying to stay in win-now mode, Jordan Travis may get an opportunity to prove his value. They drafted the former Florida State Seminoles QB in the fifth round last year after he finished in fifth place for the Heisman Trophy. If they want to look internally at replacement options for Aaron Rodgers, Travis makes the most sense in a prove-it spot.
#2 - Carson Beck
The Jets are likely to be picking in the top 10 of the 2025 NFL draft, so they could potentially target a QB. They may not have a high enough pick to land Shedeur Sanders or Cam Ward, so Carson Beck may be their best option unless they make a blockbuster move to trade up. The prospect has recorded 7,426 passing yards and 57 touchdowns in two years as the Georgia Bulldogs' starter.
#3 - Justin Fields
The free agent market is another place that the Jets could look if they decide to move on from Rodgers in 2025. Justin Fields is one of the most interesting QBs available as his four-year $18.8 million contract will expire at the end of this season. He was having a solid season for the Pittsburgh Steelers before being replaced by Russell Wilson and his dynamic skillset during his time with the Chicago Bears could be desirable in the right situation.
#4 - Sam Darnold
The Minnesota Vikings are in an interesting situation for their QB position next year. Sam Darnold is having an unexpected breakout season, but they already used a first round draft pick on JJ McCarthy last year. It's unclear if they will offer Darnold — a pending free agent — a massive contract. If they don't, the Jets could target him to return to New York and replace Rodgers.
#5 - Kirk Cousins
The Atlanta Falcons made the shocking decision to draft Michael Penix Jr. last year, despite signing Kirk Cousins to a huge contract in free agency. Hedging their bet apparently worked out for them as they have already benched Cousins and handed the position over to Penix. The veteran was having a disappointing season, but his promising career makes him a possibility for the Jets, especially if they are maintaining their hopes of potentially being playoff contenders next year.
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