Would 41-year-old be worth the Raiders’ time?
There has been a lot of media speculation that the Las Vegas Raiders could sign future Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers once he is released by the New York Jets,
Let’s look at the pros and cons of the Raiders making this move:
Pros
Could do a lot worse:
It’s not a great year to try to obtain a veteran quarterback or draft a top prospect at the position. So, having a player of Rodgers’ stature available can’t be overlooked during this cycle. There will be worse starting quarterbacks added this offseason.
Brady affect?
One of the reasons why media folks are dot connecting Rodgers to the Silver and Black is the presence of Raiders’ new part owner Tom Brady. He is expected to be part of the decision process at the position. Superstar quarterbacks are in a fraternity. Surely, Brady believe Rodgers can win big in his 40s like he did himself.
Bring back Adams?
All know Rodgers and Davante Adams, who is likely to be a salary-cap release of the Jets, would likely enjoy playing together for a third time. Why couldn’t Adams come back to Las Vegas? The Raiders could use him. Many of the reasons why he wanted to move on last year are probably no longer factors. The idea of him and Rodgers reuniting in Las Vegas under a new regime is not that silly of a notion.
Cons
Won’t be long-term answer:
Rodgers is 41. He is probably going to go year-to-year. So, if the Raiders do sign him, it will likely be for one season. The Raiders would still have a long-term question mark at the position and would likely enter next offseason looking for a new quarterback for the fourth straight year. It would just be pushing the problem back for yet another year.
Can he still play?
Rodgers was injured on the first series of the 2023 season and he had a somewhat rocky seoans in 2024. He had his moments, but he also showed signs of age. He will get any better during the season in which he turns 42?
Baggage:
There’s always a lot of stuff that comes along with Rodgers. That was reportedly part of the new Jets’ regime’s decision to move on from him this offseason. At his age, level of play and short-term status, would the baggage be worth it?
Conclusion:
The Bottom line is, can he still be a difference maker, and if so, can be elevate this team to the postseason in 2025? Let’s face it; the Raiders are more than a quarterback away from contention. If Rodgers comes in and leads the Raiders to a 7-10 record only to be one-and-done, how does that help the program. They will still be in a tough spot when it comes to finding the quarterback for the future once again next offseason. So, while a Rodgers’ signing has its positive aspects, the long-term issue still hovers over this idea.