NFL community roast Aaron Rodgers after Jets’ teammate honor him as most inspirational player for the 2023 season: “Overrated QB”

Aaron Rodgers received support from the New York Jets, who signed him after he indicated a desire to play for them, during a difficult period with the Green Bay Packers. The Jets were resolute in their support of the starter even if an Achilles ailment kept him from returning the favor on the field.

While sidelined, Rodgers quietly influenced the Jets, playing a latent role in their six victories. His impact was significant enough for teammates to honor him with a prestigious title as the 2023 season drew to a close.

Jets name Aaron Rodgers as most inspirational player

While in football, success is often measured by on-field accomplishments, for Aaron Rodgers, his impact goes beyond touchdowns and victories. The veteran quarterback, now with the New York Jets, has demonstrated exceptional mentorship that has earned him the title of the Jets’ Dennis Byrd Most Inspirational Player.

Rodgers, though unable to showcase his sportsmanship on the field due to a season-ending injury, has transformed the atmosphere within the Jets’ organization. The locker room and practice field have experienced a positive shift since his arrival, instilling a newfound confidence in the team. 

The Jets’ head coach, Robert Saleh, acknowledged this change during a press conference before Friday’s practice. Saleh emphasized that Rodgers’ off-field contributions were the driving force behind the Most Inspirational Player award.

“Well, that’s the whole thing. Most of these awards are not necessarily based on what’s done on the football field. These guys are with each other all the time. They’re dealing with the building, they’re dealing with every single department, and Aaron’s presence,” Saleh explained, per the NY Post.

The 40-year-old quarterback’s worthiness for the award lies in the genuine love and camaraderie he shares with his teammates. Saleh praised Rodgers for his intentional approach, thoughtfulness, and overall positive influence on the team.

“I’ve said it a million times, he loves his teammates, his teammates love him. He’s so intentional with how he approaches everyone in the building, he’s very thoughtful in the way he does things, and he’s a tremendous human, he really is, and well deserving of the award.”

Despite being sidelined due to injury, Rodgers continued to inspire the team. He flew across the country after surgery, entering the Jets’ locker room like a “Superman.” This act of dedication motivated the team to an unexpected victory against the high-flying Philadelphia Eagles in Week 6. Rodgers, appearing without crutches, threw passes and stole the spotlight, setting the stage for a memorable performance.

Before that, the Jets team was even in the lineup to beat the Kansas City Chiefs, in which Rodgers made his first public appearance following his season-ending injury. Nevertheless, with the refs’ unwavering support that was dubbed “Tom Brady-level protection,” Patrick Mahomes’ team at last snatched the victory.

In a challenging season for the Jets, Rodgers remained a pillar of support for his teammates, notably backing young quarterback Zach Wilson. Despite Wilson facing skepticism and criticism, Rodgers never doubted his caliber. Even when reports suggested that Wilson hesitated to take on the starting role, Rodgers stood by his backup starter.

 Fans mock Jets QB Aaron Rodgers

While the Jets team highly values Aaron Rodgers’ exceptional contributions, even though his time on the field with the team was limited, not all netizens share the same sentiment. Despite being regarded as a worthy recipient of a prestigious title by his teammates, some online critics label the four-time MVP as an “overrated QB,” downplaying the significance of his contributions.

Aaron’s limited playing time in the overall regular season games, mere minutes on the field, became a subject of mockery among fans. The fact that he received a prestigious award despite his minimal contribution fueled further criticism.

A few supporters went so far as to raise questions about the team’s openness in the award decision. Instead of going to a player who left the Jets after playing in only four plays, they said that the coveted award ought to go to someone who was instrumental in guiding the club to success on the field.

Who do you think should actually win the title?