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Green Bay Packers have turned the page on an era defined by iconic players. Over the last few seasons, the franchise has moved on from stars like Aaron Rodgers and Aaron Jones, both of whom played pivotal roles in Green Bay's success.
Rodgers has spent the past two seasons with the New York Jets but is currently a free agent ahead of the 2025 NFL season. Meanwhile, Jones suited up for the Minnesota Vikings in 2024 and is returning for another season in purple and gold.
However, it seems the former Packers running back has no interest in reuniting with his old quarterback.
Aaron Jones Shows Clear Support for J.J. McCarthy Over Aaron Rodgers
Recent rumors suggested the Minnesota Vikings might pursue Aaron Rodgers in free agency, potentially reuniting him with Aaron Jones in an NFC North twist. But that speculation came to a halt when the Vikings decided to move forward with rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy, the former Michigan standout.
Jones, for one, fully supports the decision.
“J.J.’s a winner. If you look from high school through his time in college, he’s lost one career game," Jones said. “He came in, and in his short time there, he was balling. The preseason, he ended up getting hurt, unfortunately. But I think it might’ve been a quarterback battle if he didn’t get hurt. He’s different. He’s a competitor. He wants to be great and he’s hungry.”
Jones' praise for McCarthy signals a clear shift in loyalty. Despite his long-time bond with Rodgers in Green Bay, the veteran running back is now fully invested in the Vikings’ future — one that doesn’t include his former MVP quarterback.
Rodgers Out, McCarthy In: Vikings Commit to Youth Movement
Rodgers, a four-time NFL MVP, had assumed Minnesota might be looking for a bridge quarterback to mentor McCarthy. But the organization made it clear: they’re all-in on McCarthy as the starter going forward.
In 2024, Rodgers put up respectable numbers with the Jets, completing 63.0% of his passes for 3,897 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, with a 90.5 passer rating. While those stats suggest he still has fuel left in the tank, Minnesota isn’t interested.
The future Hall of Famer is now reportedly in talks to sign with the Pittsburgh Steelers for the 2025 NFL season.
Final Thoughts
The decision by Aaron Jones to publicly back J.J. McCarthy over a reunion with Aaron Rodgers is a major statement. It underscores not only his belief in Minnesota's young quarterback but also the Vikings' commitment to building around McCarthy long-term.
As for Rodgers, it appears his journey will continue elsewhere — and all signs point toward Steel City.
