Credited from: APNEWS
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — In a remarkable performance, Aaron Rodgers became the fifth player in NFL history to throw 500 career regular-season touchdown passes, achieving this milestone in the second quarter during the New York Jets’ game against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday. The quarterback's notable achievement occurred on a five-yard pass to Tyler Conklin, which brought the Jets a 7-6 lead with 7:57 remaining before halftime (AP News).
Rodgers, who celebrated with his teammates after the touchdown, also had a standout game by throwing a season-high four touchdown passes, finishing the match with 274 yards on 23 of 36 attempts, sealing a 32-20 victory over Miami. His performance included TD passes to Conklin, Davante Adams, Allen Lazard, and Breece Hall (AP News).
Entering the game, Rodgers needed just one touchdown to reach the 500 milestones, having achieved his 499th touchdown pass the previous season against the Los Angeles Rams. With these latest achievements, he joins an elite group of quarterbacks including Tom Brady (649), Drew Brees (571), Peyton Manning (539), and Brett Favre (508) in this coveted category. After reaching the milestone, he significantly added to his tally by connecting with Lazard for his 501st score and later 502nd and 503rd touchdowns against the Dolphins.
This potentially marked Rodgers' final game in the NFL, as he expressed uncertainty about continuing his career into next season at age 41. Meanwhile, the Jets are also navigating a change, with new general management and coaching staff expected in the coming offseason, which complicates whether the franchise will retain the iconic quarterback. Nevertheless, if this was indeed his farewell performance, he left on a triumphant note, culminating in a victory while simultaneously making history in the sport.
The Jets' victory stymied Miami's playoff hopes, particularly after the Denver Broncos secured their postseason spot later in the day.