While his career numbers may not be all that spectacular, Joe Namath is perhaps the biggest legend in New York Jets history.
So, it’s only natural to see that the team has retired his mythical No. 12 jersey after he led them to and through their one and only championship ever.
That could be a bit of a predicament if the Jets intend to pursue Aaron Rodgers in the offseason, as some analysts have predicted.
That’s why Namath has made it clear that he has no issue whatsoever with Rodgers unretiring his number if that is what it takes to get him to MetLife Stadium next season.
“Well, it’s on ownership. It’s different ownership. Different people. And I’d sure love Rodgers if he’s there,” Namath said. “Yeah, I want him to wear his number. We established ourselves and we’ve got a real respect for our numbers, and Aaron Rodgers, God almighty, yeah! It’d be great to have him in New York.”
Joe Namath said he would allow his #12 jersey to be unretired if Aaron Rodgers signed with the @nyjets …
The crew reacts in Mad Minute @PSchrags @KyleBrandt @JasonMcCourty pic.twitter.com/lyW1kaAGud
— Good Morning Football (@gmfb) January 20, 2023
Rodgers has once again drawn plenty of attention for his comments on his future, hinting at the possibility of retirement or forcing his way out of Lambeau Field.
This never-ending dance between Rodgers and the Packers’ front office might as well be entering his final stage once and for all, as there’s virtually nothing the Packers could give him that they haven’t given him already, money-wise.
So, the Jets would make perfect sense for Rodgers if he actually were to leave.
For starters, they have a solid and promising defense and an even more impressive set of young weapons to choose from.
Also, the Jets are one of the few teams that could afford his salary and also have enough assets to pull a deal off with the Packers, and are perhaps the most QB-needy team in the league.
NEXT: Jets Land 2 Young Stars On The Top All-Pro Team