The ongoing Aaron Rodgers trade saga has reached a perplexing phase, with the potential trade holding significant implications for the NFL. Despite this, the transaction has hit a temporary roadblock due to certain unresolved matters. As tensions continue to mount, the commentators on ESPN’s First Take recently weighed in on the stalemate. But Stephen A. Smith seemed to have some solid words for the Jets fans.

In the latest episode of ESPN’s First Take, Stephen A. Smith, Marcus Spears, and Dan Orlovsky keep their thoughts on the Green Bay Packers–New York Jets‘ potential trade. The panelists interact about the latest happenings and whether Aaron Rodgers is an ideal fit for the franchise.

The Jets’ Quarterback Conundrum

Stephen A. Smith shot his fiery take, which could be a nightmare for the Jets fanbase. He mentioned, “I’m not trying to act like the Packers don’t need to do this. But let’s be very, very clear that the Jets are in a must situation, a desperate situation. Let’s stop this now. Let’s stop this alright? The reality is this: Zach Wilson is your quarterback. Derek Carr’s gone, okay. You’re not getting any more Lamar Jackson, all right? Derek Carr ain’t coming, alright Jimmy Garoppolo ain’t coming.”

The ESPN analyst reminded fans of the time when the roster’s morale went down when Zach Wilson took over. But they relished when Mike White stepped in as the starter as he was Aaron Rodgers.

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The prime reason to hold the trade could be the authority over it. Both teams are indeed desperate to make it happen, as the Jets need a veteran, and the Pack wanted A-Rod out. However, if the high-profile trade cannot happen, then what other option does NY have in the arsenal?

If not Aaron Rodgers, then who?

Aaron Rodgers seems to be the priority choice for the New York Jets in their veteran quarterback quest. While both franchises are talking the trade out and materializing things, the talks could eventually fizzle out and fall apart. So if not Rodgers, the Jets could approach the Los Angeles Rams.

As per PFT’s Mike Florio, the Green Gang seem to have a backup in Matthew Stafford. Given the franchise’s struggles in the 2022-23 season, it could be a possibility. The PFT Insider mentioned, “If Aaron Rodgers hadn’t decided to join the Jets, Stafford could have become the Plan B, if he would have been willing to go to New York.”

What would happen next? Not just the media, but the fans are eager to witness.

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