FLORHAM PARK, N.J. (AP) — As Aaron Rodgers prepares for what may be his final game with the New York Jets, he reflects on his turbulent journey, describing it as "the best two years of my life." The 41-year-old quarterback shared his sentiments ahead of the Week 18 finale against the Miami Dolphins, focusing on gratitude despite the challenges he has faced during his time in New York [AP News].

Rodgers acknowledged that although the on-field performance has fallen short of expectations—culminating in a disappointing 4-12 record and the Jets’ prolonged playoff drought—his personal experiences have been immensely rewarding. "Gratitude, honestly. It’s been a perspective adjustment that happened during the rehab process last year," he stated. Rodgers spoke fondly of falling back in love with the game and cherishing the relationships formed with teammates and staff [USA Today].

Following a season marred by injuries—including a torn Achilles suffered just four snaps into his debut season—Rodgers expressed his need for a mental break, emphasizing that he requires time to refresh and evaluate his future. "I just need a break mentally to kind of refresh and put my feet in the sand," he mentioned, indicating that he won’t rush into any decisions regarding retirement or possibly continuing to play next season [AP News].

The dynamics within the Jets organization have also changed dramatically, with the recent firings of head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas, contributing to questions surrounding Rodgers's future with the team. Despite expressing a desire to remain with the franchise, he recognized that management may favor moving in a different direction as he is finishing the final year of his contract which lacks guaranteed money [USA Today].

Interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich underscored the significance of possibly coaching Rodgers' last NFL game. "If it happens to be his last game, let’s take him out on the right note," he affirmed. As Rodgers gears up for his potential farewell at MetLife Stadium, the focus remains on gratitude for the journey rather than dwelling on what may come next in his storied career [AP News].