It's Official: Aaron Rodgers is New York Jets QB, Not Robert F. Kennedy Jr. VP

The New York Jets found themselves in the political pages after Robert F. Kennedy Jr. reportedly had Aaron Rodgers on a running mate shortlist.

New York Jets v New England Patriots / Billie Weiss/GettyImages

On Jan. 8, New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers took a hard stance against distractions that plagued his team in 2023. Two months later, he was rumored to be on the shortlist to become Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s vice president.

On Tuesday, it became clear that Rodgers will not be chosen for the position.

Rodgers’ political endeavors never truly put his status with the Jets in doubt — in all likelihood Kennedy won’t win the presidency anyway — but his involvement isn’t the news the New York faithful have been looking for.

New York Jets v New England Patriots / Billie Weiss/GettyImages

Playing in the biggest media market in the world, with a track record of mediocrity, the Jets’ meanders of misfortune never fail to capture the attention of the football world. Rodgers, once again, played into that and opened himself up to questioning. Part of New York’s commitment to Rodgers meant relying on him to perform at a level close to his most recent MVP seasons. The remainder is not letting the chaos that follows Rodgers rip the organization apart at the seams.

As the New York Times reported, Kennedy’s running mate will be Nicole Shanahan, an attorney who played a key role in his Super Bowl ad that drew controversy for playing off of President John F. Kennedy. It wouldn’t be the first time a Shanahan ended Rodgers’ run.

For now, the Jets will wait for his recovery to progress so that he can distribute to an improved offense, filled with three new starters up front and a $15 million receiver on the boundary. They’ll also have the 10th pick in April’s NFL Draft at their disposal, though New York general manager Joe Douglas is yet to show his hand. He intended to give himself options, and with an efficient free agency, he did just that.

Rodgers isn’t alone in his political pursuits on the Jets – owner Woody Johnson worked for the Donald Trump administration – but his position as the face of the franchise is unique. Surely, the Jets hope this is the last time their quarterback’s politics create headlines.