Aaron Rodgers Addresses Critics
Aaron Rodgers, the outspoken quarterback for the New York Jets, has once again turned heads with his sharp commentary, this time aiming his words at critics of his game.
During an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show on ESPN, Rodgers suggested that before pundits weigh in on his performance, they should first disclose their COVID-19 vaccination status. The quarterback’s remarks, both biting and sardonic, have reignited debates over his approach to criticism and his ongoing critique of vaccine mandates.
“Say whatever you want about me,” Rodgers said, adding his now-signature defiance. “But just before you do it—whether you’re stating your name or listing your accolades—state your vax status. So that anything you say afterward gets put in the right light.”
“I just got a PSA..
Just a quick reminder” 😂😂 ~ @AaronRodgers12 #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/6dI6X86Hwp
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) December 17, 2024
Rodgers went further, implying that a critic’s stance on vaccination reveals their broader worldview, remarking that such a disclaimer would help audiences “understand where [the criticism] is coming from.”
He also didn’t hold back on labeling pro-vaccine critics as part of a “multi-billion-dollar propaganda psyop” while dismissing their opinions as rooted in frustration over his independent choices during the height of the pandemic.
This isn’t the first time Rodgers has clashed with the media over his views on vaccines and personal autonomy. In 2021, he was heavily scrutinized after it came to light that his previous claims of being “immunized” against COVID-19 were misleading.
The controversy didn’t seem to faze him, as he remained resolute in defending his decision not to get vaccinated, a stance that he now says continues to irritate journalists.
“They’re still mad I’m the ‘COVID MVP,’” Rodgers quipped during the interview, alluding to his back-to-back MVP wins during the pandemic years. “Not just for my performance on the field but because I didn’t bow down to the medical industrial complex.”
The exchange also highlighted a touch of discomfort from the show’s host, who jokingly noted, “This will settle it all down.” Whether the sarcasm was meant to diffuse the tension or hint at the inevitable backlash, Rodgers appeared unfazed.