By Solomon 
How Aaron Rodgers Impacts the 49ers’ Talks with Brock Purdy
An AFC coach who faced Aaron Rodgers at the end of the 2024 season still sees him as a top-tier quarterback. “I think the guy is still a beast,” he said, noting that Rodgers’ mental sharpness and throwing ability haven’t faded. While he’s not as mobile or athletic as he was a decade ago, the coach said he wouldn’t hesitate to sign him if his team needed a QB.
The Giants seem to agree. After failing to pry Matthew Stafford away from the Rams, they turned their attention to Rodgers. The 41-year-old was released by the Jets after two rough seasons filled with injuries, drama, and inconsistent performances. Despite exploring other options—meeting with Russell Wilson and Joe Flacco and planning a visit with Jameis Winston—the Giants still have Rodgers as their top target.
Last season, Rodgers went 5-12 with the Jets, completing 63% of his passes for 3,897 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. According to another AFC executive, Rodgers still has flashes of his old talent, but his mobility has declined, making him more of a pocket passer. However, with the right team around him, he could still be a solid starting QB for at least another season.
So, how does this affect the 49ers and Brock Purdy? The quarterback market is shifting, and if Rodgers signs with a team like the Giants, it could influence contract negotiations for younger quarterbacks like Purdy. If teams are willing to invest in aging stars like Rodgers, Purdy and his camp may push for a bigger deal, knowing the demand for reliable QBs remains high.