A whirlwind week in the NFL took an unexpected turn with reports suggesting that Aaron Rodgers, quarterback for the Jets, might be named as the running mate of Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. on an independent ticket for the U.S. presidency. As of now, Rodgers and former Minnesota governor Jesse Ventura are the leading candidates, with Kennedy set to reveal his pick on March 26.
While the Jets organization doesn’t believe Rodgers will accept the offer, he hasn’t confirmed either way and has been out of contact this week. This decision poses a significant financial sacrifice for Rodgers, potentially forfeiting $37.5 million in salary if he opts to pursue the political path.
It could create distractions for the Jets, contrary to Rodgers’ emphasis on maintaining focus on winning during the season.
Campaigning would further disrupt Rodgers’ NFL commitments, allowing him only one day per week, at best, for active campaigning.
Despite the attention garnered by his potential candidacy, Rodgers has yet to address the matter on social media. Likely, he will politely decline the offer, citing that the timing isn’t right for him to enter politics.
However, given the unpredictable nature of the situation, there’s speculation that Rodgers may be considering all options, including a last-minute decision to enter the political arena. Regardless, his involvement in this speculative scenario could shape his future political endeavors, making any eventual transition smoother.
In the realm of possibilities, Rodgers might be contemplating his choices in private, pondering whether to embark on this unconventional journey.
The prospect of facing skepticism and unconventional competition might sway him, echoing past surprising moves by Jets quarterbacks, such as Joe Namath’s post-Super Bowl retirement dispute with the league over his bar/restaurant ownership.
