Jets, Steelers Open NFL Season Amid Aaron Rodgers Departure Tensions

Aaron Rodgers, now quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, is set to face his former team, the New York Jets, in the season opener at MetLife Stadium. Rodgers downplays the significance of the matchup, focusing on Week 1 as just another game, despite his contentious departure from the Jets after a difficult two-year tenure marked by injury and team struggles. Jets head coach Aaron Glenn has largely avoided discussing Rodgers' exit, emphasizing the present and the Jets' direction under new quarterback Justin Fields, who has been praised for bringing a different team dynamic compared to Rodgers. Rodgers criticized the Jets' handling of his release, highlighting the lack of communication and the organization's dysfunction, particularly criticizing their running game. While some Jets insiders acknowledge Rodgers was well-liked, they note his presence affected the team dynamic, contrasting it with Fields' leadership style. Both teams appear focused on moving forward, with Rodgers embracing his new role in Pittsburgh and the Jets adjusting under Fields' leadership.