The New York Jets made a major move during the 2023 NFL offseason by trading for four-time NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers from the Green Bay Packers. This acquisition immediately elevated the Jets to Super Bowl favorites according to many fans and analysts, who believed the team was just a good quarterback away from contending.

However, the Jets ended the season with a 7-10 record, mirroring their previous season’s performance. Rodgers was injured early in Week One and played only four snaps all season. Additionally, the free agent signings intended to support Rodgers, such as Randall Cobb and Allen Lazard, failed to make an impact.

Speculation has arisen about how the season might have turned out differently if Rodgers had remained healthy. On a recent podcast, four-time Pro Bowl quarterback Derek Carr revealed that he nearly signed with the Jets before they traded for Rodgers.

Carr found himself in a difficult situation after the 2022 NFL season with the Las Vegas Raiders. Despite high expectations following the acquisition of Davante Adams and a standout season from running back Josh Jacobs, the team struggled. Carr was benched two weeks before the season’s end and released afterward.

While Carr ultimately signed with the New Orleans Saints, he disclosed that the Jets were seriously pursuing him prior to securing Rodgers in the trade. This revelation has led many to wonder how the 2023 season might have unfolded had Carr joined the Jets.