Aaron Rodgers Rumors: Ex-NFL Exec Says Woody Johnson Was 'Boxed in' to Keep QB Happy

New York Jets owner Woody Johnson reportedly chose to retain the team's coaching staff following the 2023 season in order to appease Aaron Rodgers.

A former league executive told ESPN's Rich Cimini that Johnson was "boxed in."

"Woody was boxed in, and I'm sure that didn't make him happy," the executive said.

Cimini noted that Rodgers gave a public endorsement to Robert Saleh and supported offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett before changes were made amid New York's slow start to the 2024 season.

Saleh was relieved of his duties as Jets head coach by Johnson following a Week 5 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. Two days later, interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich announced that Hackett would be replaced by passing game coordinator and quarterbacks coach Todd Downing as the team's offensive play-caller.

Despite speculation that Rodgers may have played a role in Saleh's firing, Cimini reported on Monday that Johnson didn't solicit input from the four-time MVP before making the decision. He did call Rodgers on the eve of the firing, though.

Saleh finished with a record of 20-36 in four years with the organization. The Jets were coming off two straight 7-10 seasons before the loss to Minnesota dropped them to 2-3 in 2024.

While Rodgers missed nearly all of his 2023 campaign after suffering a season-ending Achilles injury in Week 1, the continued struggles by the team this season with the star passer back under center caused Johnson to lose patience (via Cimini).

The Jets will attempt to get back on track against a division rival on Monday night, facing off against the Buffalo Bills. Kickoff is at 8:15 p.m. ET.