How Aaron Rodgers' Contract Impacts Jets' Salary Cap in Potential Release, Retirement

As the New York Jets prepare for the post-Aaron Rodgers era, managing the cap fallout from his departure will be the first obstacle to overcome.

Rich Cimini of ESPN reported that New York will inherit $49 million in "dead" money but will likely spread this across 2025 and 2026. This would mean that New York would have $14 million in "dead cap" in 2025 and that number would escalate to $35 million in 2026.

"The Jets are left with $49 million in "dead" money, which can be spread over two years if he's designated a post-June 1 cut," Cimini wrote. "In that case, they would absorb a $14 million charge in 2025, realizing a net savings of $9.5 million in '25. There would be a $35 million charge in 2026."

If Rodgers is to retire instead of being released, Cimini reported that the "same accounting applies."

Rodgers spent 2023 and 2024 with the Jets although he only played four offensive snaps in 2023 before suffering a torn Achilles. He returned in full in 2024 and threw for 3,897 yards with 28 touchdowns and 11 interceptions.

Despite this solid production, New York went 5-12 and missed the postseason for the 14th consecutive season. While the team could have elected to run it back with Rodgers in 2025, they will instead take on the cap penalties in the present and move on as a franchise.

New York has $20.9 million in cap space heading into free agency, per Over The Cap, and holds the No. 7 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. The current quarterbacks on the roster beyond Rodgers are Tyrod Taylor, Jordan Travis and Adrian Martinez.