The New York Jets have officially informed quarterback Aaron Rodgers that they are moving forward without him. This decision was preceded by a different message, indicating he would also need to make a transition of his own.

As reported by Brendon Kleen from AwfulAnnouncing.com, Dianna Russini shared on the latest episode of the Scoop City podcast that the Jets had previously indicated to Rodgers that should he wish to return, he would have to stop his regular appearances on ESPN’s Pat McAfee show. Additionally, the team expressed that he would be required to be present for all offseason activities.

The link between these two stipulations and their ultimate decision to part ways with Rodgers remains uncertain. If they intended to move in a different direction, the preemptive warnings seem unnecessary. Alternatively, they might have wanted to gauge his reaction to this news, potentially influencing their final choice.

Importantly, under the Collective Bargaining Agreement, the Jets have no authority to limit a player’s off-field media engagements or compel him to take part in any voluntary offseason workouts. An alternative could have been to propose a modified contract with a substantial workout bonus to encourage his participation. However, the CBA explicitly states that no team representative can imply that the voluntary offseason activities carry any obligations.

Last season, Rodgers attended most of the voluntary workouts but made headlines by skipping the mandatory minicamp to go on a trip to Egypt, a jaunt he could have easily scheduled between the offseason practices and the start of training camp.

Rodgers has remained quiet following the recent developments regarding his position with the Jets. He seems to be taking a patient and thoughtful approach, knowing that any comments about the team could potentially be leveraged against him by coaching staff or executives who might be hesitant about signing him. Given the skepticism surrounding him in recent years, any negative remarks about the Jets might reinforce the argument that if he were to join the team, they could face similar backlash.

Nevertheless, it seems unlikely that Rodgers will stay mute forever. At some point, likely during an appearance on McAfee’s show, his instinct to speak out will likely prevail. He may not be able to resist making a pointed remark about the Jets’ mixed messages before their final decision.