Aaron Rodgers has had a legendary career—four MVPs, a Super Bowl ring, and two decades of elite play. But according to Hall of Famer DeMarcus Ware, it might be time for the NFL icon to finally call it a career.
Appearing on the Up & Adams podcast on Wednesday, Ware didn’t hold back when asked where Rodgers should go next.
“I mean, right now, where Aaron Rodgers should go—I think he should hang the cleats up,” Ware said. “That’s where I think Aaron Rodgers should go. He should put a suit on just like me and talk about football. He’s the best of the best, right?”
Ware also acknowledged the greatness of Rodgers’ career, calling him a future Hall of Famer. “He’ll probably be the second guy from our class to make it in after me,” Ware added, referencing the 2005 draft class they both came from.
When asked why he felt Rodgers should walk away now, Ware pointed to the harsh reality of age and injuries in the NFL. Even though Rodgers still has the arm talent and smarts, Ware warned that the risk of lasting injury isn’t worth it.
Sharing his own journey, Ware revealed he retired not because he couldn’t play—but because he wanted to leave the game on his own terms. “It’s about going out through the front door, not being dragged out the back,” he said, nodding to how Tom Brady exited the league on his own timeline.
Aaron Rodgers, who began his career with the Packers in 2005 and became their starter in 2008, is heading into his 20th season. Ware, drafted the same year by the Dallas Cowboys, retired in 2017 after winning a Super Bowl with the Broncos.
Free Agent Rodgers looking for the next stop in his career
Aaron Rodgers and the New York Jets officially parted ways in March 2025, making the four-time NFL MVP one of the most valuable talents in free agency for this season.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have emerged as frontrunners to land him, especially after he was spotted working out with their newly acquired receiver DK Metcalf. Still, NFL insider Mike Florio suggested Rodgers may be waiting for the May 14 schedule release to see which team offers the best shot at a final run.
Whether he suits up again or not, one thing’s certain: Aaron Rodgers’ next move will shake up the NFL landscape.
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