What is an NFL players ‘disability insurance’ policy? Explaining how Aaron Rodgers insurance gamble heavily backfired

With a less promising NFL quarterback like Zach Wilson at the helm, the New York Jets showcased their unwavering commitment to former Green Bay Packers veteran Aaron Rodgers. They made a major move by signing the 39-year-old signal-caller, who repeatedly announced his forecoming retiRodt.

A-Rod also gave hope to the Jets team by showcasing his interest in a long-term commitment, albeit a season-ending injury came in the way. After signing a fully guaranteed two-year, $75 million deal, Gang Green already incurred a big loss. Besides that, the team also turned down a disability insurance policy for him, which was another loss project for them.

What is an NFL players ‘disability insurance’ policy?

In the competitive world of the NFL, the risks of injury are a constant presence for athletes. To minimize these risks, many footballers turn to disability insurance policies tailored specifically to their high-stakes careers which deal with the risk of being too sick or hurt to play football at a professional level.

NFL
The New York Times

These policies are of two types- permanent total disability and temporary total disability. The first one is designed to provide financial protection for the players who are unable to resume play due to a career-ending injury while the second one is for severe injury like ACL, which is not a career-ending setback.

The cost of premiums depends on several factors like age, health, and so on. Franchises often purchase insurance coverage on behalf of their key players to offer support beyond the standard benefits and solidify their contractual obligations.

Jets’ gamble on Aaron Rodgers without insurance backfires

A-Rod tore his Achilles after playing four snaps in his season debut during the Big Apple’s Week 1 “Monday Night Football ” win over the Buffalo Bills. The injury sidelined him for the entire season.

According to a report of Sportico, the Jets were offered a temporary disability insurance coverage package for A-Rod, ranging from $1 million to $4 million while the more expensive options covered almost $22 million of his $37 million contract this year. However, the franchise didn’t pay heed to it, and hence, they lost a big sum by turning down the insurance package.

The four-time MVP sustained multiple injuries in his career including problems with his collarbone, foot as well as knee. In the Jets’ week 6 win against the Philadelphia Eagles, the QB seemed fit as he walked without crutches or a walking boot and even threw passes. Rodgers hopes to return to the field by mid-January.

What’s your take on Rodgers’ recent appearance at MetLife stadium? Tell us in the comments.

Maliha

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Maliha is an insightful sports writer with over a year of experience focusing on the NFL. Initially venturing into both NFL and NBA coverage, her journey began without a particular affinity for American football. However, her passion for the sport blossomed as she started following football more. Now, a huge NFL fan, Maliha meticulously follows every development within the league. She always wants to ensure her analysis is comprehensive and up-to-date to fellow readers.

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