Jets owner: Rodgers' potential VP bid was 'momentary distraction'
New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers was reportedly approached to be U.S. presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr's running mate. However, Kennedy ultimately selected a different candidate, and Jets owner Woody Johnson is confident the story won't be an issue for his club moving forward.
"He (Rodgers) is getting back to football 100 percent," Johnson said in an interview with Fox News, according to Ryan Dunleavy of the New York Post. "He never left football. That was a momentary distraction."
Johnson added: "But he's back 100%. Great leader. I tell the receivers: 'You count to 10, hold your hands up and look around, the ball will be there.'"
Rodgers is set to return in 2024 from a torn Achilles he suffered just four snaps into his Jets tenure. The four-time MVP was acquired by New York in a trade with the Green Bay Packers last offseason for multiple draft selections and a 2023 pick swap.
The Jets have made several moves across the offensive line to help Rodgers stay healthy next season. They signed eight-time Pro Bowler Tyron Smith, guard John Simpson, and traded for veteran offensive tackle Morgan Moses.
New York ranked 28th in sacks allowed per game last campaign.
"If we can keep him on his feet, which I think we can, it's going to be an exciting start to the season," Johnson said.
Rodgers is under contract with the Jets through the 2025 season.