New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers had some advice for the first overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft
It may have been 18 years ago, but there was a time when New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers was a rookie in the NFL. Now, the 39-year-old is the oldest quarterback in the league.
Rodgers is using his perspective to give advice to the next generation of signal callers. Despite the stigma surrounding the four-time NFL MVP, Rodgers has been an extremely positive presence for the young Zach Wilson – and the 39-year-old is spreading that positivity around to other teams’ quarterbacks, too.
Yesterday, the Jets started joint practices with the Carolina Panthers leading up to their preseason matchup on Aug. 12.
The practice left more to be desired for Rodgers and the Jets, but the league’s eldest quarterback took the time to play mentor to the first quarterback taken in this year’s NFL draft, Bryce Young.
After the practice, the Jets’ quarterback was asked what his advice would be for the Panthers’ rookie quarterback.
“Be gentle with yourself. It’s a long journey,” Rodgers said. “It feels like every little snap and practice is the end of the world if it doesn’t go right. It’s just not true, it’s a long, long journey. It’s about holding onto your confidence and enjoying the ride. Enjoying the little things every day. But I think he’s got a great head on his shoulders, and he’ll be just fine.”
Not only could Rodgers’ touching message be applied to the NFL, but it’s a lesson to remember in life as well. For 22-year-old Bryce Young, it’ll be an important one that could define his NFL career.
Young was selected first overall by Carolina in the 2023 NFL draft after spending three years at Alabama. The Heisman Trophy winner will have plenty of eyes on him this season – an experience Rodgers is all too familiar with.
