The disappointing Aaron Rodgers era in New York Jets history has come to an end, and nothing drove that point home better than a funny segment on ESPN’s Get Up on Monday morning.
Host Mike Greenberg, a huge Jets fans, presided over a funereal ceremony where the show covered the No. 8 Rodgers jersey that has prominently hung in a frame on the set since Rodgers joined the team in 2023.
“One of the things I’ve been asked a lot is what we’re going to do about the jersey,” Greenberg said. “We put this Aaron Rodgers jersey up with the best of intentions.”
Greenberg then called out several members of the Get Up crew who are Jets fans, along with guest analyst Alan Hahn, a fellow Jets fan and host with ESPN Radio.
“We’re going to do a ceremony here,” Greenberg said. “The bottom line of it is, I’m not ready to process the end of this era yet. We went into this with the highest of hopes and expectations, and I’m not ready to move on.”
Somber music played as Greenberg made his speech. Hahn stepped forward and lowered a curtain over the jersey.
“Curtains on Aaron Rodgers’ era with the Jets,” Hahn said, as Greenberg dabbed his eyes with a handkerchief.
ESPN’s ‘Get Up’ has officially retired its famous Aaron Rodgers Jets jersey. pic.twitter.com/8oXI1wEXmk
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) February 24, 2025
As everyone stood around commemorating the moment, talk turned to special memories from the Rodgers era.
“That preseason two years ago was special,” Hahn announced with a straight face.
It’s not the first time Get Up has pulled the curtain on the Rodgers era. In late October, when the Jets dropped to 2-6 after losing to the one-win New England Patriots, Damien Woody observed, “The Aaron Rodgers era is over … it’s time to blow this thing up.”
The Jets’ future at quarterback is murky. But Get Up also faces a decision — how to fill the space vacated by Rodgers’ jersey. (Hint: It won’t be a Brock Purdy jersey).
The smart money is on it being another New York area sports star, but Greenberg solicited suggestions on X Monday.
What jersey should go up in this hallowed spot on @GetUpESPN? Please reply with suggestions – we’ll choose from your best picks until the start of next season. pic.twitter.com/e2qw4rujjp
— Mike Greenberg (@Espngreeny) February 24, 2025
About Arthur Weinstein
Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.