New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers' strained relationship with team owner Woody Johnson appears to have deepened this season.
According to The Athletic, Rodgers urged Johnson to remain patient with head coach Robert Saleh and offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett after a 23-17 loss to the Minnesota Vikings on Oct. 7. However, chaos ensued the next day when Saleh informed Rodgers about demoting Hackett in favor of Todd Downing as play-caller.
Rodgers expressed strong opposition to the move, reportedly prompting Saleh to prepare backup quarterback Tyrod Taylor in case Rodgers refused to play. Later that day, Johnson fired Saleh, promoting Jeff Ulbrich from defensive coordinator to interim head coach. Ulbrich managed to ease tensions with Rodgers despite implementing the controversial play-calling change.
Rodgers has since shared his dissatisfaction with Johnson’s leadership, stating on The Pat McAfee Show that he isn’t close to the owner and has a better relationship with Christopher Johnson, the Jets' vice chairman. Earlier this month, Rodgers criticized Johnson’s approach, emphasizing the need for owners to hire the right people and support them amid external pressures.
As the Jets head into Sunday’s matchup against the Los Angeles Rams with a dismal 4-10 record, Rodgers’ future with the team remains uncertain. The Jets will miss the playoffs for the 14th consecutive season, adding to the franchise’s ongoing struggles.
