Aaron Rodgers Won't Play in Preseason Game Against New York Jets

Aaron Rodgers will not play in the Week 2 preseason game against the New York Jets, as announced by Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy. The decision comes as Rodgers prepares for his potential retirement after the 2026 season.

What happened?

On Wednesday, Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy announced that Aaron Rodgers will not play in the Week 2 preseason game against the New York Jets. Backup quarterback Mason Rudolph will also not suit up for this game.

Why it matters for Aaron Rodgers

The decision to sit Rodgers comes as he prepares for his potential retirement after the 2026 season. Rodgers announced his intention to retire before the 2026 season, and this preseason game appears to be the final time these two teams could clash before he hangs up his cleats.

What comes next?

The Jets are not scheduled to play the Steelers during the upcoming regular season. However, the only other possibility for a matchup between the two teams would be in the playoffs. The Jets haven't been to the playoffs in 15 years, making this a far-fetched scenario.

Not a Lot of Great Feelings Between the Two

The relationship between Jets head coach Aaron Glenn and Rodgers is strained. Glenn threw Rodgers out the door when he was hired as the head coach, and Rodgers felt "disrespected" by the final meeting. Rodgers has expressed regret about ever deciding to come to the Jets.

Who Will We See on the Jets Side of Things?

Coach Glenn was asked on Wednesday if the plan is to play the starters against the Steelers. "The players are going to play, and then things can change as we get closer to gametime," Glenn responded. This suggests that the starters may play in this second preseason game.

Key Takeaways:

• Aaron Rodgers will not play in the Week 2 preseason game against the New York Jets.
• The decision comes as Rodgers prepares for his potential retirement after the 2026 season.
• The Jets are not scheduled to play the Steelers during the upcoming regular season.
• The only other possibility for a matchup between the two teams would be in the playoffs.
• The relationship between Jets head coach Aaron Glenn and Rodgers is strained.

Preseason Game Stats:

Note: The stats table is based on the information provided in the source article.