Why Jets Are Great Fit for Packers' Aaron Rodgers amid Latest NFL Trade Rumors

Aaron Rodgers could be getting traded from the Green Bay Packers to the New York Jets. If that happens, then the 39-year-old quarterback's move would greatly impact the landscape of the NFL, especially for those two teams.

There have been conflicting reports of how close Rodgers is to announcing his plans for the 2023 season. He could retire, he could voice his desire to stay with Green Bay or he could approve a trade to New York.

So where do things stand at this point?

According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, "nothing has happened" between Rodgers and the Jets. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported New York is "cautiously optimistic" that it could be landing Rodgers (h/t Marcus Mosher of Pro Football Focus).

SNY's Connor Hughes tweeted he'd heard from Jets sources that "nothing is done."

But the buzz is picking up, and it's starting to seem like more of a possibility that Rodgers could be heading to New York. It would mark the first time he's changed teams in his NFL career after spending his first 18 seasons with Green Bay.

It makes sense why the Jets would want Rodgers. He continues to play at a high level, being named NFL MVP in both the 2020 and 2021 seasons, then passing for 3,695 yards and 26 touchdowns in the 2022 campaign.

It also makes sense why Rodgers may want to go to New York. Even though the Jets own the longest active playoff drought in the league (with their last postseason appearance coming at the end of the 2010 campaign), they're a team on the rise with a lot of exciting young players on their roster.

New York's receiving corps features Garrett Wilson and Elijah Moore. Its backfield has running back Breece Hall. There's a lot of offensive talent to put Rodgers in a great position to succeed.

Plus, Rodgers has already accomplished so much in his NFL career. Why not take on a new challenge by trying to lead the Jets back to the playoffs?

It's a much better option for Rodgers than retirement, as he's proved he still has at least one more productive year ahead of him. And he should have plenty of motivation, considering his lone Super Bowl victory came back in the 2010 season.

Hughes suggested New York may be willing to make additional big moves if it acquires Rodgers. With the makings of a strong offense and a stout defense, the Jets could quickly become a surprise championship contender for 2023, as unlikely as that may have sounded not that long ago.

So Rodgers should put off retirement, opt for a fresh start in New York and see what he can do with a team on the rise. It's a smart decision for both sides. Now, Rodgers just needs to make it known that it's what he wants so the Packers and Jets can make a deal happen.

Although that hasn't happened yet, it's quite possible it may not take too much longer before Rodgers is finally on the move.