Jets Unfazed by Aaron Rodgers Drama Ahead of Week 1 Showdown with Steelers
FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — The New York Jets are not letting the media buzz around their Week 1 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers distract them, even though it marks Aaron Rodgers’ return to MetLife Stadium.
Rodgers, now with the Steelers, spent two disappointing seasons with the Jets, managing only six wins and battling an Achilles injury that derailed his 2023 season just four plays in. His underwhelming tenure led to an offseason overhaul in New York, including the hiring of new head coach Aaron Glenn, whose first major move was parting ways with Rodgers.
Rodgers didn’t go quietly. He publicly criticized the organization and Glenn in a February appearance on The Pat McAfee Show. Despite the comments, the Jets have remained silent and focused on their season ahead.
“We’ve got 17 important games this year, and I’m looking forward to all of them,” Glenn said as minicamp wrapped up Thursday.
Adding to the intrigue, current Jets quarterback Justin Fields previously played for Pittsburgh but was benched despite a solid 4–2 start. Fields chose to sign with the Jets over returning to the Steelers, but unlike Rodgers, he left his former team on good terms.
While Glenn and the Jets may downplay it, the game carries extra emotional weight — not just because of Rodgers’ return, but also due to the intertwining storylines surrounding Fields and both franchises.
Whether they acknowledge it or not, Week 1 will be more than just the start of a new season — it’s a spotlight moment for all involved.
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