Aaron Rodgers knows there's a rat in the Jets organization.
New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers has never been shy about expressing his frustrations. On Wednesday, the veteran signal-caller made it clear: he believes leaks within the organization remain a significant issue. Speaking to reporters, Rodgers didn’t hesitate when asked if leaks are still a problem for the Jets.
“100 percent yes,” Rodgers said, per Connor Hughes on X, formerly Twitter.
This isn’t the first time Rodgers has addressed leaks during his tenure with the Jets. Last season, he openly criticized the organization after a report suggested that backup quarterback Zach Wilson was hesitant to play when the team attempted to reinsert him as the starter. At the time, Rodgers didn’t mince words, calling the situation “chickenshit at its core” and stating that leaks “have no place in a winning organization.”
The issue resurfaced this week after reports emerged that Jets owner Woody Johnson allegedly suggested benching Rodgers after Week 4. The timing of the leak and its nature led to further scrutiny of the team's internal dynamics. Rodgers was asked how the organization might resolve the problem, but his response highlighted the issue's complexity.
“I think it, you know, it starts with figuring out what they are and putting a stop to it,” Rodgers said.
Aaron Rodgers acknowledges a leak issue in the Jets organization, is clearly upset
Identifying leaks and stopping them is easier said than done, especially in a high-pressure market like New York. Leaks can stem from multiple sources—disgruntled employees, individuals seeking favor with reporters, or simply someone eager to feel important by sharing inside information. In such an environment, the temptation to talk can be hard to resist.
During his weekly appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, Rodgers expressed bewilderment at the motivations behind leaks. Even when teams experience success, individuals within organizations sometimes share sensitive information with the media, a behavior Rodgers finds counterproductive and damaging to team cohesion.
One method to identify leaks is to share false information with specific individuals and monitor what reaches the media. The infamous 2018 report about Condoleezza Rice being a candidate for the Cleveland Browns’ head coaching job is often cited as an example of this tactic, though it’s not a foolproof solution.
In a media-heavy market like New York, the challenge becomes even greater. The combination of heightened scrutiny and intense demand for insider information makes it nearly impossible to ensure total silence from all employees. For the Jets, the leaks add yet another layer of dysfunction to an already tumultuous season.
Ultimately, Rodgers’ stance is clear: leaks are an unacceptable part of the organization’s culture. But addressing the issue will require more than just acknowledging it—it will demand systemic changes, clear leadership, and, as Rodgers emphasized, an unwavering commitment to a winning mentality.
