The New York Jets (3-9) have lost three consecutive games and eight of their last nine, signaling that a change is necessary if they hope to salvage some respectability this season. However, interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich has made it clear that the quarterback position will not be the source of that change, despite 41-year-old Aaron Rodgers showing signs of struggling, potentially nearing the end of his career.
Speaking after the Jets’ 26-21 loss to the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday, Ulbrich dismissed the growing speculation about benching Rodgers, calling him “our quarterback.” While Ulbrich didn’t confirm whether Rodgers would start the final five games of the season or if the starting QB role would be assessed on a week-to-week basis, he expressed strong confidence in the four-time MVP. “We have great belief in Aaron,” Ulbrich said. “We think he gives us the best opportunity to win.”
If that’s the case, it doesn’t speak highly of backup Tyrod Taylor. Despite having offensive stars like Garrett Wilson, Davante Adams, and Breece Hall, Rodgers has had a poor season, posting a quarterback rating of just 48.5 (his second-lowest as a starter), completing only 62.5% of his passes, and averaging a career-low 6.3 yards per attempt, with 19 touchdowns and eight interceptions in 12 games.
Rodgers, who also received Ulbrich’s support last week after failing to surpass 200 passing yards for the fourth time this season, seemed to acknowledge the mounting pressure. Speaking after the Seahawks loss, he hinted that the decision on whether he should be benched might ultimately rest with him.
“Yeah, I don’t know. We’ll figure that out when we have those conversations,” Rodgers said. “I’ll have a conversation with [Ulbrich] if that’s what he’s thinking.” For now, it appears that Ulbrich plans to keep Rodgers as the starter, meaning the Jets’ season is likely to continue on its downward trajectory unless this stance changes.
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