Stephen A. Smith Calls “Nonsense” on Aaron Rodgers’ Claim of Unawareness Regarding Robert Saleh’s Potential Firing
In yet another fiery segment of First Take, ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith didn’t hold back his skepticism over Aaron Rodgers’ recent statements regarding the New York Jets’ internal dynamics. In the wake of swirling rumors about head coach Robert Saleh being on the chopping block, Rodgers claimed he had no knowledge of any plans to oust Saleh. Stephen A., however, was quick to call this claim “nonsense,” igniting a wave of controversy in the sports world.
Rodgers, despite his recent Achilles injury, has remained a pivotal figure in the Jets’ locker room and media sphere. His leadership was touted as one of the reasons why the Jets had a strong start to their season, and his absence on the field has left a vacuum that’s been hard to fill. Saleh, on the other hand, has faced increasing pressure due to the team’s inconsistent performance, questionable play-calling, and lack of adjustments, which have drawn the ire of fans and analysts alike.
During the segment, Stephen A. Smith scoffed at the idea that Rodgers could be in the dark about any serious discussions surrounding Saleh’s job security. “Are we really supposed to believe that Aaron Rodgers, who’s practically been given the keys to the franchise, is completely unaware of what’s happening with the head coach?” Smith bellowed. “This is the same guy who had a direct hand in bringing Nathaniel Hackett to the team, the same guy who has repeatedly voiced his opinions on how the organization should be run. It’s pure nonsense to think he doesn’t know what’s going on.”
Smith’s critique doesn’t stop at Rodgers, however. He also questions the larger narrative that players, especially star quarterbacks like Rodgers, are often kept out of discussions regarding coaching changes. “In the NFL, especially with a guy like Rodgers, there’s no way he’s not privy to those conversations. This isn’t a rookie quarterback—they consult him on everything. If Robert Saleh’s job was really in jeopardy, Rodgers would’ve known.”
The crux of Smith’s argument is that Rodgers, given his influence within the Jets organization, is too connected to claim ignorance. From forcing the Packers’ hand in recent years to his commanding presence with the Jets, Rodgers has consistently shown that he is anything but a passive player. Stephen A. believes that the quarterback is either downplaying his knowledge of Saleh’s situation to avoid controversy or is actively engaging in damage control amid growing discontent within the team.
This stance, however, has its detractors. Some argue that Rodgers might genuinely be out of the loop as he focuses on his recovery and rehabilitation. With less direct involvement on the field, it’s plausible, they argue, that Rodgers could be distanced from management’s decisions regarding coaching personnel. After all, star athletes—no matter how influential—don’t always have a seat at the table when it comes to these kinds of decisions. But Smith refuses to buy into that narrative, insisting that Rodgers’ track record speaks for itself.
“Let’s not forget,” Smith continued, “Aaron Rodgers isn’t just another player. He’s built his career on being one of the most vocal and hands-on quarterbacks in the league. For him to suddenly play the role of the uninformed quarterback—it doesn’t add up.”
The controversy surrounding Smith’s comments taps into a larger debate about the role of star players in coaching decisions. Should quarterbacks, especially veterans like Rodgers, be privy to or even influence decisions regarding their head coaches? It’s a fine line between fostering collaboration and creating a power imbalance. Rodgers’ relationship with the Jets is particularly unique, given the immense hype and hope that surrounded his arrival. If the Jets do fire Saleh, many will inevitably wonder how much sway Rodgers had in that decision—and, if he did, why he would claim to know nothing about it.
Smith’s take, while controversial, highlights a reality that NFL fans have seen time and again: star quarterbacks often wield significant power behind the scenes. Whether it was Tom Brady’s influence in Tampa Bay, Peyton Manning’s in Denver, or even Rodgers’ tumultuous final years in Green Bay, it’s clear that quarterbacks of Rodgers’ caliber are more than just players—they are strategic assets whose voices can shape the trajectory of an entire franchise.
As the Jets continue to navigate a tumultuous season, Stephen A.’s comments serve as a reminder of the complicated dynamics at play in professional football. Whether or not Rodgers was truly unaware of Saleh’s potential firing is still up for debate, but one thing is clear: in the world of the NFL, few things remain a secret for long. And according to Stephen A., this latest claim is simply “too hard to believe.”
Smith’s assertion may not sit well with everyone, but it reflects a broader skepticism many hold about the transparency of NFL front offices and their star players. For now, all eyes remain on the Jets as they try to salvage a season filled with high expectations but marred by mounting pressure and uncertainty—both
on and off the field.