‘You should ask Woody’ – Aaron Rodgers on his 2025 Jets

The Record New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) limps off the field during a play where it appeared he had gotten injured, Sunday, December 22, 2024, in East Rutherford. Rodgers was back on the field during Gang GreenÕs next possession.

Aaron Rodgers has made it clear that if he plays a 21st NFL season in 2025, he’d like to do so with the New York Jets. But he’s tried to turn the spotlight on the team’s owner, Woody Johnson, when the topic of his future arises.

Asked Tuesday whether he believes the organization wanted him back next year following another disappointing campaign, Rodgers acknowledged that several decision-makers have to be put in place before the Jets plan their future. New York fired coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas during the season.

“There’s a GM that has to get hired, I would assume first, and then he’s going to be part of hiring the head coach,” Rodgers said, “so I have to be in the plans of multiple people, starting with the ownership and then the GM and then the head coach.”

Rodgers was asked if he believes Johnson wants him to return.

“You should ask Woody,” Rodgers said, later adding that he and the owner have not had any conversations about his future with Gang Green.

His comments to reporters came one day after his weekly appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show,” where he also discussed his playing future and seemed to poke fun at Johnson.

“Being released would be a first; being released by a teenager, that would also be a first,” Rodgers said with a laugh Monday. “So, hey, I’m open to everything and I find the comedy in all of it. If that happens, hey, it’s a great story.”

Rodgers was referring to a report by The Athletic last week that said Johnson has been swayed by advice from his teenage sons, Brick and Jack, including about whether to pursue trades for certain players.

The Jets would absorb a $49 million dead cap hit if they release or trade Rodgers this offseason.

After his first season with New York was ruined four snaps into Week 1 when he suffered a season-ending Achilles injury, Rodgers has thrown for 3,511 yards, 24 touchdowns and eight interceptions this year as the Jets have gone 4-11.

Rodgers is playing through an MCL injury but said Tuesday there was “no way” he wouldn’t play in the Jets’ Week 17 game against the Buffalo Bills

NFL on FOX: Former Miami Dolphins head coach and sports analyst Jimmy Johnson drops an important note to the entire NFL. According to the reports, he mostly emphasizes on…

Former Miami Dolphins head coach and sports analyst Jimmy Johnson drops an important note to the entire NFL. According to the reports, he mostly emphasizes on…
Former Miami Dolphins head coach and sports analyst Jimmy Johnson recently dropped an important note to the entire NFL, offering his insights on the current state of the league. According to reports, Johnson mostly emphasizes the importance of adaptability and the evolving nature of football in today’s game.

As a coach with decades of experience, including winning two Super Bowls, Johnson’s perspective is invaluable. He stresses that the NFL is in a constant state of flux, with rules, player skill sets, and strategies continually changing. One of the key points he highlighted is how the modern NFL is becoming more pass-heavy, with offenses focused on quick, high-scoring plays. In contrast, he points out that teams need to be adaptable, emphasizing the need for a strong defense to counterbalance the high-powered offenses.

Johnson also spoke about the rising importance of analytics in decision-making. He notes that teams must be willing to embrace technology and statistical analysis to maintain a competitive edge. While he acknowledges the traditional aspects of football, such as physicality and team chemistry, Johnson believes that using data to shape game plans is now crucial.

Another topic Johnson addressed was the pressure on quarterbacks, recognizing that they are the cornerstone of modern NFL offenses. He advocates for better support systems, both in terms of offensive lines and coaching, to ensure quarterbacks have the tools they need to succeed.

Ultimately, Jimmy Johnson’s message to the NFL is clear: in a league that is continuously evolving, staying ahead of the curve is essential. His experience and foresight into the game encourage teams to remain flexible, embrace innovation, and focus on long-term success rather than short-term gains.

Cowboys 3-round mock draft: Dallas
stockpiles offensive firepower

In need of help on offense, the Dallas
Cowboys land two big-time playmakers in this 3-round 2025 NFL Mock Draft.

The Dallas Cowboys won’t be in the playoffs this year but they way they’ve closed out the season has been promising. They’ve won four of their past five games, and it could have been five if not for a mistake on a blocked punt.

Dallas was expected to make big changes this offseason with Mike McCarthy on the hot seat but this resurgance has him favored to return. Whether he comes back for a sixth year, or they look for a new coach, the offense is going to need more talent.

That’s the focus early in this 3-round mock draft as the Cowboys bring in two difference-makers with their first two selections.

Round 1: Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State

Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Emeka Egbuka / Samantha Madar/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY has fought through a shoulder injury all season and still has more than 100 receptions and 1,000 yards. Dallas has needed that from him since the rest of the offense has been inconsistent. While Jalen Tolbert has been vastly improved, he’s best served as a WR3, which is why they use their first round pick on Emeka Egbuka from Ohio State.

A savvy route-runner who can be deadly after the reception, Egbuka would would an excellent addition across from Lamb. He’s exactly what Dak Prescott needs to get back on track in 2025.

Round 2: Dylan Sampson, RB, Tennessee

Tennessee running back Dylan Sampson / Brianna Paciorka/News Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
One of the most pleasant surprises this season has been Rico Dowdle. The former undrafted free agent had 903 yards and is averaging 4.8 per carry. As we saw in Week 16, however, when he struggles to move the ball on the ground, Dallas has no other options.

That’s why adding a running back is a must, even if they re-sign Dowdle. In this mock, they use their second pick on Dylan Sampson from Tennsee, giving them someone who can carry the load — but also has no issues working in a committee.

Sampson had 604 yards and seven touchdowns in 2023 while splitting time with Jaylen Wright. When Wright entered the NFL, Sampson became the No. 1 back and has 1,491 yards and 22 touchdowns in 13 games.

Round 3: Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon

Oregon Ducks defensive lineman Derrick Harmon forces a fumble from Idaho Vandals quarterback Jack Layne / Ben Lonergan/The Register-Guard / USA TODAY NETWORK
Osa Odighizuwa has put together the best season of his career in 2024, which happent to be a contract year. He’s likely earned more than Jerry Jones is willing to pay, so the Cowboys will need to find a replacement.

In this mock, one slides to them in Round 3 with Derrick Harmon from Oregon still on the board. Harmon is a disruptive pass rusher who spent three years at Michigan State before heading to Oregon. In his first year with the Ducks, he has 42 tackles and five sacks.

A massive D-tackle at 6-foot-5 and 330 pounds, Harmon is also a powerful run defender who could turn into a weapon in the middle of the defensive line.