As the New York Jets brace for another uncertain offseason, quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ future remains one of the most pressing questions.
The 40-year-old four-time MVP recently hinted at the possibility of returning to play in 2025. However, Rodgers’ decision could be influenced by more than just his health or the team’s performance—it may also hinge on a political shift in the Jets’ ownership structure.
A Changing of the Guard at Ownership
During Donald Trump’s first presidency, Jets owner Woody Johnson served as U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom. With Trump’s victory in the 2024 election, speculation is rife that Johnson might once again step into a public role, leaving the team’s ownership duties to his brother, Christopher Johnson.
While this might sound like a distant political matter, it has direct implications for the Jets. As a businessman with deep ties to the team, Christopher Johnson’s potential return could be the key to Aaron Rodgers’ return to the franchise. Ian O’Connor, who authored Rodgers’ biography Out of the Darkness: The Mystery of Aaron Rodgers, believes that Rodgers’ close relationship with Christopher makes this an important factor in his decision to return. According to O’Connor, Rodgers has expressed a strong bond with Christopher, stating, “I love Chris, I really do. I feel like I’ll have a lifetime friendship with him regardless of what happens.”
The Jets’ Leadership Crisis and Rodgers’ Future
With the Jets’ playoff drought extending into its 14th year, the team is at a crossroads. Much of their future depends on a new head coach and potential organizational changes. But with the possibility of Christopher Johnson taking over, the Jets may finally find some stability that could also tip the scales in favor of Rodgers’ return.
For Rodgers, the key factors might not just be about football—it’s about the relationships and the leadership overseeing the team. As the Jets work through these changes, one thing remains clear: the connection between Rodgers and the Johnson family could play a major role in determining whether the legendary quarterback plays out his final seasons in New York.
