NFL insider Mike Florio recently shared a theory on why quarterback Aaron Rodgers hasn’t yet joined the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Aaron Glenn was a key architect of one of the NFL’s fiercest defenses during his time as defensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions.
Now, he’s tasked with dismantling one of the league’s most chaotic offenses — and that began with letting go of former MVP Aaron Rodgers.
After leaving Detroit this offseason, Glenn became head coach of the New York Jets, stepping into a mess following two turbulent seasons led by Rodgers. The team cut ties with Rodgers earlier this year, and the quarterback revealed that the decision followed a surprising encounter with Glenn.
Rodgers caused a stir this week during his appearance on the Pat McAfee Show, alleging that Glenn acted on his own during a tense offseason meeting. Rodgers claimed he expected a serious discussion about his role, but instead Glenn came in ready to move on without him.
“I assumed flying across the country on my own dime meant we’d have an honest talk,” Rodgers said. “But the weird thing was, I show up, talk to the coach … He walks out of the room … Then returns with the GM. … We’re in the office. I think we’re going to have a big conversation.”
But it was anything but lengthy, Rodgers said. Glenn cut the meeting short and delivered the news in under a minute.
“Maybe 20 seconds in, while I’m speaking with the GM, Glenn leans in and asks, ‘Are you sure you still want to play?’ I said, ‘Yes, I do.’ Then he says, ‘We’re moving in another direction at quarterback.’ ”
The Jets had hoped Rodgers would elevate them to Super Bowl status, but he tore his Achilles just a few snaps into 2023 and couldn’t revive the offense last season.
Despite Rodgers putting up solid 2024 numbers — a 63% completion rate, 3,897 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 picks — the team struggled offensively and ended the season at 5-12.
Rodgers also claimed Glenn was worried he’d disrupt team chemistry, a charge the quarterback denied.
“He told me, ‘I don’t want to address the team and see guys turning to you,’” Rodgers said. “I asked, ‘What does that mean? Are you saying I’d be sitting back there trying to undercut you?’ I said, ‘You don’t know me.’ And he replied, ‘You don’t know me.’”
Lions fans likely aren’t shocked by this exchange, as Glenn had a reputation as a straight-shooter who transformed Detroit’s defense from the league’s worst to a key strength of a title contender.
Some have applauded Glenn’s choice, arguing Rodgers airing out a private conversation might be proof he truly was a locker room distraction.