The 2023 NFL season is set to be nothing short of extraordinary with Aaron Rodgers taking the helm as the starting quarterback for the New York Jets. However, an alternate reality briefly loomed on the horizon for the Jets when their pursuit of Rodgers faced uncertainty due to his intentions and concerns about his 2023 season commitment.
Sources reveal that during this uncertain period, the Jets reached out to the Los Angeles Rams to explore the possibility of a Matthew Stafford trade. These discussions, while brief, were marked by the Jets’ determination to leave no stone unturned in their search for a franchise quarterback.
Two sources familiar with the situation emphasize that the Rams firmly declared Stafford off the trade table. The talks between the two teams remained primarily exploratory, as Los Angeles exhibited no inclination to part ways with their quarterback.
McVay not interested in Matthew Stafford trade
With Rams’ head coach Sean McVay confirming his return for another season, it was always the plan for Stafford to continue as their quarterback. Stafford, who now boasts improved arm strength and better health than the previous season, remained an essential part of the Rams’ roster.
However, the Jets weren’t the only team interested in a Matthew Stafford trade. Multiple quarterback-needy teams reportedly contacted the Rams to inquire about Stafford’s availability, reflecting speculation within the league about Los Angeles potentially entering a sell-off mode. Although the Rams did eventually trade Jalen Ramsey to the Dolphins in March, their core roster largely remained intact.
Stafford, in response to the trade inquiries, expressed his appreciation for the interest but reaffirmed his contentment with his current team. “I just know that I’m really happy where I am,” Stafford stated at the start of the July training camp. He returns to the field with renewed strength, despite having faced injury setbacks last season.
Meanwhile, the Jets solidified their quarterback position by trading for Aaron Rodgers in late April, concluding months of negotiations. The trade became more likely after Rodgers publicly announced his intention to play for the Jets in the 2023 season during an appearance on the Pat McAfee Show in mid-March.
The stage is now set for Aaron Rodgers to make his debut for the Jets in prime-time at MetLife Stadium, leaving fans and the NFL community eager to witness this high-profile quarterback transition in the 2023 season.
