Rodgers linked with nostalgic move after Jets departure
The Minnesota Vikings are one of the favourites to sign Aaron Rodgers ahead of the 2025 NFL season.
The NFL’s free agency moves for the 2025 season have created a whirlwind, particularly at the quarterback position. The New York Jets released Aaron Rodgers, while the Los Angeles Rams opted to retain Matthew Stafford.
The Seattle Seahawks traded Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders for a third-round pick in the upcoming draft, and the Minnesota Vikings chose not to use the franchise tag on Sam Darnold. Meanwhile, Kirk Cousins is looking to leave the Atlanta Falcons after losing his starting job to Michael Penix Jr., but team management is unwilling to let him go.
With that in mind, Rodgers appears poised to follow in the footsteps of fellow former Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre. The four-time MVP is an option for the New York Giants, who currently have only Tommy DeVito under contract.
Aaron Rodgers following in Brett Favre’s footsteps
However, according to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo and Bleacher Report’s Jordan Schultz, the Vikings could also pursue Rodgers as a temporary starter while J.J. McCarthy recovers from a torn meniscus suffered before the 2024 season.
Another option for Minnesota is to re-sign Daniel Jones, whom they acquired late last season after his release from the Giants. Other free-agent quarterbacks include Zach Wilson, Trey Lance, Jacoby Brissett, Justin Fields, Joe Flacco, and Jameis Winston, among others.
Though Favre’s career began with the Atlanta Falcons in 1991, his legacy was built during a 16-year tenure with the Packers (1992-2007), followed by a season with the Jets (2008) and two with the Vikings (2009-10). Rodgers' rise led to Favre’s departure from Green Bay, just as Jordan Love’s emergence eventually led to Rodgers' exit.
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Now, after 18 seasons with the Packers and two with the Jets, Rodgers' career trajectory could mirror Favre’s once again. Will the veteran quarterback, who has made more headlines for his off-field remarks than his recent performances, find his next chapter in Minnesota?
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