Aaron Rodgers’ 2024 NFL season, widely considered one of his least productive, paradoxically reveals surprising statistical dominance over highly-regarded quarterbacks like Josh Allen and Jalen Hurts in key passing metrics, challenging popular narratives about his declining performance.
Despite widespread belief that his tenure with the New York Jets and the 2024 campaign marked a significant downturn in his illustrious career, particularly after an Achilles injury in 2023 and only five regular-season wins in 2024, the raw numbers paint a nuanced picture that contradicts the perception of a washed-up veteran. This context highlights the narrative of a seasoned player seemingly past his prime.
Delving into the specifics, Rodgers amassed 3,897 passing yards in 2024, a figure that, while ranking as his third-lowest in seasons with 16 or more games played, remarkably surpassed both Josh Allen, the reigning regular season MVP, and Jalen Hurts, the defending Super Bowl MVP. This unexpected outcome suggests a different dimension to his on-field impact.
The statistical anomaly extends to passing touchdowns as well. Rodgers concluded the 2024 season with 28 passing touchdowns, matching Allen’s tally and placing them both tied for seventh in the league. In contrast, Hurts, operating within the Philadelphia Eagles’ formidable run-heavy offensive scheme, recorded a comparatively lower 18 passing touchdowns.
However, a more comprehensive evaluation reveals areas where Allen and Hurts clearly outshined the veteran. In terms of QBR, a metric that accounts for all quarterback play, Allen posted an impressive 77.3, and Hurts achieved a respectable 65.6. Rodgers’ 48.0 QBR ranked 25th among 2024 quarterbacks, making it his second-lowest career rating, surpassed only by his final season with the Green Bay Packers.
Ultimately, Rodgers would undoubtedly prioritize the postseason success enjoyed by his younger counterparts over individual passing metrics. Allen consistently leads his team deep into the playoffs, a feat Rodgers hasn’t experienced since the 2016 postseason. This distinction underscores the difference between individual statistical performance and team-level championship contention.
Similarly, Jalen Hurts, despite not possessing the pure arm talent of either Rodgers or Allen, has leveraged his dual-threat capabilities and the support of key teammates like Saquon Barkley to reach the Super Bowl podium. This illustrates how overall team strength and strategic offensive schemes can compensate for, or even overshadow, individual passing statistics.
As Rodgers embarks on what is anticipated to be his final professional season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, both parties are united by a common ambition: to end their respective playoff droughts. The Steelers seek their first playoff victory since January 2017, while Rodgers aims for his first since January 2021, setting the stage for a crucial collaboration.
Despite the skepticism surrounding Rodgers’ age and recent performance, there remains a palpable sense of optimism for their joint venture. His continued ability to produce top-tier passing numbers, as evidenced by the 2024 statistics, suggests he still possesses the talent to significantly contribute. The Steelers believe this level of play will be sufficient to secure a coveted divisional round spot in 2025.
