Aaron Rodgers: A Legacy Beyond the Last Two Years

Aaron Rodgers, one of the most brilliant quarterbacks to ever play in the NFL, has had a career that will undoubtedly stand the test of time. While his recent years with the New York Jets may not have added to his illustrious legacy, his remarkable achievements with the Green Bay Packers ensure that his place in football history remains intact. Former Packers linebacker Clay Matthews, who spent years alongside Rodgers, recently drew a compelling comparison between the quarterback’s leadership style and the legendary Los Angeles Lakers icon Kobe Bryant.

Rodgers’ Uncompromising Leadership Style

Kobe Bryant’s tragic passing in 2020 left the sports world in mourning, but his legacy lives on through his unmatched work ethic and leadership on the basketball court. Bryant was known for pushing not only himself but also his teammates to be their absolute best. Matthews sees a similar trait in Rodgers, especially during his prime years with the Packers.

“He’s always been different,” Matthews said on the Dan Patrick Show. “If you compare him to other quarterbacks, I would say he was more of a ‘rah-rah’ guy—though I don’t mean that in a negative way. I mean, leaders like Drew Brees and Peyton Manning, those types who bring the huddle together. To me, Rodgers was like Kobe in that way.”

Matthews, a six-time Pro Bowler and part of the Packers’ Super Bowl-winning team with Rodgers, spent a decade playing with him. He recalls how Rodgers’ competitive nature and drive for greatness naturally drew in teammates, building deep connections with star players like Jordy Nelson, Davante Adams, and Greg Jennings—relationships that helped elevate the Packers’ offense to elite status.

Rodgers’ Impact Beyond the Numbers

While Rodgers’ final years with the Jets haven’t lived up to the hype, it’s impossible to ignore the lasting influence he’s had on the game. After missing the previous season due to an Achilles injury, Rodgers played a full season in 2024, completing 368 of 584 passes for 3,897 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. While those statistics are solid, the Jets’ 5-12 record was a far cry from expectations, with much more anticipated from the team.

Despite the team’s struggles, Rodgers’ numbers were still reflective of his elite talent, though questions have been raised about his future with the Jets. New York hired former Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn as their new head coach, and it remains uncertain whether they plan to keep Rodgers as their QB1 for the 2025 season.

Looking Toward the Future: Will Rodgers Return for 2025?

At 41, Rodgers has yet to announce his intentions for the 2025 season, though it’s clear that his desire to play for a 21st NFL season remains strong. A 10-time Pro Bowler and four-time All-Pro, Rodgers has proven time and again that he still has plenty to offer. His victory in Super Bowl XLV, where the Packers defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 31-25, cemented his status as one of the best to ever play the game, earning him the Super Bowl MVP honors.

As Rodgers contemplates his future, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if he returns for another season and whether the Jets or another team will benefit from his immense talent and leadership. Regardless of what the future holds, one thing remains certain: Aaron Rodgers’ place in NFL history is already secured, and his legacy, much like that of Kobe Bryant, will continue to inspire future generations.