New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers has been encouraged to consider retirement by a former peer from the 2005 Draft class. Initially starting the season with championship aspirations, Rodgers and the Jets have fallen short of the lofty expectations set by the NFL community.
Heading into a ‘Thursday Night Football’ showdown against the Houston Texans, the Jets held a disappointing 2-6 record, sitting at the bottom of the AFC East. Despite this, Rodgers managed to lead his team to a 21-13 victory after being advised pre-game to contemplate stepping away from the sport.
This season has been a stark departure from the achievements that have defined Rodgers’ legendary 20-year NFL career. Drafted 24th overall by the Green Bay Packers in 2005, Rodgers has become a four-time MVP, Super Bowl winner, and a 10-time Pro Bowl selection.
However, Shawne Merriman, a former All-Pro linebacker and the 12th overall pick in the 2005 Draft by the San Diego Chargers, believes Rodgers no longer plays at his peak. “Aaron Rodgers will always be remembered as one of the greatest quarterbacks ever. No one can deny that, but time catches up with everyone,” Merriman told *Mirror U.S. Sports*.
“I get why he came back after the Achilles injury last year—you don’t want to end your career that way. But now we’re seeing signs of age. He struggles to move out of the pocket, and even simple falls look painful. He seems frustrated and worn down.”
This season, Rodgers has been plagued by health issues, accumulating 1,896 passing yards, 12 touchdowns, and seven interceptions. Merriman suggested the 40-year-old should retire to protect his legacy.
“He’s achieved everything possible. There’s nothing more for him to prove,” Merriman stated. “You don’t want to tarnish the incredible career you’ve had. People remember players at their peak, not when they’re struggling at the end.”
Merriman, who dealt with his own career decline after injuries, sympathizes with Rodgers. “I understand what he’s going through. After injuries derailed my time with the Chargers and I went to the Bills in 2010, I wasn’t the same. Watching film, I could see I wasn’t who I was a few years prior,” Merriman admitted. “It eats at you, and I’m sure it affects Rodgers too, having been one of the best to ever play at such a high level.”
