The Green Bay Packers and New York Jets pulled off one of the biggest blockbuster trades in NFL history, with future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers on the move in a deal that feels eerily reminiscent of the Brett Favre trade 15 years ago.

New York went into the offseason seeking a franchise quarterback who could put its offense over the top. Meanwhile, Green Bay was ready to move on from its NFL MVP quarterback, with the organization fully confident its heir apparent is ready to be the face of the organization.

New York went into the offseason seeking a franchise quarterback who could put its offense over the top. Meanwhile, Green Bay was ready to move on from its NFL MVP quarterback, with the organization fully confident its heir apparent is ready to be the face of the organization.

It’s a turning point for the two franchises. The Packers are now focused on the future, shutting their Super Bowl window and sacrificing a potential run in the 2023 NFL season for a brighter outlook in the years ahead. Meanwhile, the Jets add the final piece they hope can help them challenge for the Super Bowl.

Let’s dive into the winners and losers of the blockbuster Aaron Rodgers trade.

 

Winner: Jordan Love finally gets his chance

Packers’ quarterback Jordan Love waited years for this opportunity. He didn’t ask to be the 26th pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, a decision by the franchise that sparked drama between the Packers and Rodgers. Quite frankly, Green Bay’s decision to draft him looked like a whiff for two years.

  • Jordan Love contract: $2.298 million salary (2023), $20.272 million team option (2024)

However, the reports started becoming increasingly positive in 2022. The Packers’ coaching staff gained confidence in Love, believing he made the strides necessary to become a starting NFL quarterback. Furthermore, general manager Brian Gutekunst considered making a switch during the 2022 season.

Most only remember the lone start he made in 2021, but a more telling sign of where he might be as an NFL player came this fall. Facing the Philadelphia Eagles, Love completed 6-of-9 attempts for 113 yards with one passing touchdown. After the game, Pro Bowl cornerback Darius Slay heaped praise on the young signal-caller.