The anticipation and speculation surrounding Aaron Rodgers’ transition to the New York Jets has finally culminated in a blockbuster deal. As Rodgers begins this new chapter of his career, one notable change has caught the attention of fans and analysts alike: his jersey number.

When Rodgers made his intention to play for the Jets clear in March, questions emerged about the fate of his iconic No. 12 jersey, which he had sported throughout his 18 seasons with the Green Bay Packers. The Jets had retired No. 12 to honor legendary quarterback Joe Namath, a decision that influenced Rodgers’ jersey choice.

Why did Aaron Rodgers change his jersey number?

The inevitable question arose: Would Rodgers attempt to join the ranks of the great Joe Namath by donning the retired No. 12, or would he opt for a different path due to the jersey’s revered status? The unveiling of Rodgers’ new jersey number has put these speculations to rest.

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Amidst fan curiosity, Rodgers confirmed that he will wear the No. 8 jersey for the Jets. He made this announcement during his introduction to the media, raising the jersey in a symbolic gesture that solidified his choice.

Joe Namath himself weighed in on the jersey number dilemma, giving Rodgers his blessing to wear No. 12 if he wished. Namath expressed enthusiasm for the idea of Rodgers carrying on the legacy associated with the iconic number, stating during a January radio appearance that he’d be thrilled to see Rodgers in a Jets jersey.

Rodgers had the chance to take up Namath’s offer but ultimately chose to honor the significance of the retired No. 12. This decision aligns with his respect for the history of the sport and the reverence that certain jersey numbers hold.

While Rodgers is synonymous with No. 12 due to his impressive tenure with the Packers, his jersey journey has deeper layers. In college, at California, he wore No. 8. However, upon joining the NFL as a first-round pick, he adopted No. 12, which was available after kicker Ryan Longwell, the previous No. 8, departed from Green Bay.

Despite opportunities to switch numbers, Rodgers remained loyal to No. 12 throughout his time with the Packers. Now, as he embarks on a new era with the Jets, Rodgers has returned to his college roots by choosing to wear the No. 8 jersey.

The decision to adopt the No. 8 jersey ties Rodgers’ NFL journey back to his college years, reinforcing his evolution as a player and person.