Former Green Bay Packers wide receiver and Super Bowl champion James Jones shared his thoughts on the future of his ex-teammate, quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
James Jones Weighs in on Aaron Rodgers’ Future
In a behind-the-scenes video clip posted by “The Facility” on X, co-host James Jones was asked if his former teammate Aaron Rodgers should retire.
“Selfishly, as a brother, as a teammate to Aaron Rodgers, I do not want to see him hang ’em up. I want to see him play,” Jones said.
He added, “I thought he played really well last year (in 2024). I don’t want to see him go out with five wins. I want to see him go out in the playoffs or in the Super Bowl. That’s just me, as a brother. So, no, he should not retire.”
.@89JonesNTAF doesn’t want to see his boy Aaron Rodgers retire
The Facility is live NOW on FS1 👀 pic.twitter.com/lB6ZIvj59h
— The Facility (@TheFacilityFS1) March 20, 2025
Ever since being designated as a post-June 1 release by the New York Jets, Rodgers has been at the center of speculation in free agency. The 41-year-old has been linked to teams including the New York Giants and Pittsburgh Steelers. One team rumored to have interest, the Minnesota Vikings, reportedly chose not to pursue the former Super Bowl MVP.
Another option still on the table? Retirement.
As seen in the Netflix docuseries “Aaron Rodgers: Enigma,” the veteran quarterback prefers to take his time making major life decisions. Over the past few offseasons, Rodgers has isolated himself on a darkness retreat and consumed Ayahuasca, a plant-based hallucinogenic drink, to guide his decision-making process.
In another segment from “The Facility,” posted by Steelers Depot on X, Jones reiterated his belief that Rodgers shouldn’t retire.
“I know all the greats don’t get to go out like they want to go out. Everybody can’t go out like Ray Lewis, get a fourth-and-1 stop in the Super Bowl … But with Aaron Rodgers, at the end of the year, he was playing really good football. He was moving a whole lot better … he can still play the game.”
Jones also shared his thoughts on the best fit for Rodgers.
“If there’s one thing the Pittsburgh Steelers do, it’s win and get in the playoffs. I would love to see Aaron Rodgers play, get into the playoffs, and if you lose, hey man, go ride off into the sunset, to Chico, California, throw your cleats up on the wire, let ’em know Aaron Rodgers is done for.
“Four-time MVP is out of here. Gave it my best, my last ride, lost in the playoffs — it is what it is.”
Former NFL WR James Jones says Aaron Rodgers should sign with the Steelers and not retire yet: "I would love to see him in the playoffs, give it his best and ride into the sunset." #Steelers #NFL pic.twitter.com/Q7RmrNtoRm
— Steelers Depot 7⃣ (@Steelersdepot) March 20, 2025
Would the Steelers or Giants Be the Better Fit?
During their time together in Green Bay, Jones witnessed firsthand how Rodgers elevated the performance of his teammates. Jones benefited from Rodgers’ trust, leading the Packers in receiving yards in 2015.
That trust was built through consistent communication and an understanding of Rodgers’ expectations — something Jones highlights as crucial for any receiver looking to develop chemistry with the quarterback.
Between the Steelers and the Giants, one team clearly offers the best path to success.
Pittsburgh has been a playoff contender in each of Mike Tomlin’s 18 seasons as head coach. The Giants, meanwhile, have been stuck in a lengthy rebuild that has head coach Brian Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen under mounting pressure.
If Rodgers were to land in Pittsburgh, he’d have a supporting cast that includes George Pickens, DK Metcalf, and Pat Freiermuth. The Steelers leaned heavily on the run game in 2024, even though it wasn’t particularly effective. Adding Rodgers would boost a passing attack that ranked No. 27 in yards and No. 20 in touchdowns.
The Giants’ offense has weapons as well, including Pro Bowl receiver Malik Nabers, speedster Darius Slayton, promising tight end Theo Johnson, and rising running back Tyrone Tracy Jr.
After an upset win over the Indianapolis Colts late in the 2024 season, Daboll acknowledged in a postgame press conference that “good quarterback play” could lead to more positive outcomes. A fully healthy Rodgers might be exactly what the Giants need.
Ultimately, Rodgers’ decision will hinge on his unique approach to self-reflection — whether it be through darkness retreats or Ayahuasca. If he chooses to keep playing, expect him to go all in for what could be his farewell tour.