Can the Jets Get the Last Laugh Against Aaron Rodgers?
The Aaron Rodgers era for the New York Jets was anything but successful. For fans, some of the best moments they saw from the future Hall of Fame quarterback involved running on the field before a Monday Night Football game that would inevitably be the game Rodgers tore his Achilles. Over two seasons signed with the team, Rodgers played in 18 games and threw for 28 touchdowns. All of the touchdowns were in the 2024 season, which was a season below par for Rodgers. Cutting ties with Rodgers at the end of the season was the right decision for both parties, allowing him to sign a one-year deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers in June. The Jets will face Rodgers and the Steelers to open up the 2025 NFL season, marking the first reunion.
With the 2025 season likely to be the last season for Rodgers, this is a season that means everything. The Steelers haven’t had a losing season since 2003, and Rodgers certainly doesn’t want to be the one who ruins that streak. While the Rodgers reunion is certainly the headline news, Jets quarterback Justin Fields will also be making his first start against his former team. Last season, Fields played in 10 games and scored 10 total touchdowns, including five rushing touchdowns. This preseason, Fields has certainly struggled with passing, but he should be able to put it together before Week One. The Fields vs. Rodgers game will show which quarterback can get the last laugh and which team can show that they are better off without their former quarterback.
As of right now, most analysts are predicting that Pittsburgh will come away with the win; However, the Jets have some exciting pieces to debut on the field this upcoming Sunday. A new and improved defense, and a stronger offensive line will allow the Jets to have a fighting chance. It will also be the first time that fans can see the new running back by committee approach that the Jets intend to use throughout the season to give all of their running backs the chance to touch the ball. While it may take a little while for the Jets to put it all together, they should at least have a fighting chance against the Steelers and have the chance to have the last laugh against their former quarterback.
