Quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who is under contract with the Green Bay Packers, has received permission from the team to talk with the New York Jets, according to reporting from Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.
Rapoport’s report confirms original reporting from Trey Wingo that Rodgers and the Jets have begun conversations regarding a possible trade and the four-time MVP is “open” to playing in New York.
Why does Rodgers need permission? Teams are not allowed to speak with players under contract with other teams unless permission is granted. Violations are labeled as tampering and can involve harsh discipline from the league. The Packers, in this scenario, are allowing Rodgers to speak with the Jets, suggesting the team is willing to trade him in the right situation.
Per Dan Graziano of ESPN, talks between Rodgers and the Jets were expected to continue on Tuesday, potentially setting in motion a trade between the Jets and Packers involving the future Hall of Fame quarterback.
It’s becoming clear that a trade out of Green Bay is the most likely end result of this latest offseason saga, although Rodgers retiring or requesting to return to the Packers remains possible.
Rodgers turns 40 years old in December and has remained year-to-year on his desire to continue playing football.
Why New York?
The Jets have assembled a talented young roster, and former Packers offensive coordinator Nathanial Hackett is now serving in the same role for head coach Robert Saleh in New York. Could Rodgers be the final piece for the quarterback-starved Jets?
If Rodgers is traded to New York, Jordan Love would take over as the starter in Green Bay in 2023.
