Aaron Rodgers has essentially taken control of the New York Jets.

While Woody Johnson, or rather Ambassador Johnson, may still officially own the team, it’s clear that Rodgers is now the one calling the shots.

Shortly after the dismissal of Robert Saleh, the Jets fulfilled Rodgers’ desires by trading for Davante Adams on Tuesday. This trade marked the addition of a tenth former Green Bay Packer to the team, ensuring that Rodgers feels a sense of familiarity.

Offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett and receiver Allen Lazard remain on the Jets’ roster as well. Previously, backup quarterback Tim Boyle, receivers Randall Cobb and Malik Taylor, safety Adrian Amos, and offensive linemen Jake Hanson, Dennis Kelly, and Billy Turner all made the transition from Green Bay to New York alongside Rodgers.

It’s likely that a David Bakhtiari jersey can be found in the Jets’ equipment room, ready for him should his health improve.

By giving Rodgers everything he asked for, the Jets have eliminated any potential excuses he might make.

If the season continues to deteriorate, the Jets won’t be the ones taking the blame. This franchise has a dismal history, with an NFL-worst playoff drought that spans 13 years, and they’ve consistently been better at losing than making sound decisions. Zach Wilson, anyone?

Rodgers, a four-time MVP and Super Bowl champion, has only twice missed the playoffs during his 16 years as a starting quarterback when he was healthy. The Jets see him as their solution to years of disappointment, likening him to a modern Joe Namath.

This was all settled before the Jets allowed Rodgers to have a say in roster choices.

“Salvageable? We’re about to dominate — feel free to fill in the blanks,” Johnson stated at the NFL owners meeting in Atlanta. “We’re set to perform exceptionally well.”

Rodgers must ensure that this is the case. If the Jets fail to win after accommodating him in every way, especially if they waste what many anticipated could be a Super Bowl season, the responsibility will fall squarely on his shoulders.

Not on the offensive line, which has been revamped during the off-season. Not on the running game or the defense, both of which have performed decently. It will be on Rodgers.

If you want to take charge, you need to be accountable for the outcomes.

Acquiring Adams was a positive step for the Jets, especially given their struggling offense, which has contributed to their position at third in the AFC East following Monday’s defeat to the Buffalo Bills.

Adams was Rodgers’ top target during their time together with the Packers, achieving 73 touchdowns and 8,121 receiving yards. He led the NFL with a career-high of 18 touchdowns in 2020, boasting a reception rate of 66% during his tenure in Green Bay.

Even when with the disorganized Las Vegas Raiders, Adams remained productive, leading the league with 14 touchdowns in 2022 and recording 1,000-yard seasons in his first two years there. When he expressed a desire to leave Las Vegas, multiple teams sought his services.

“I believe anyone would show interest,” Johnson said.

Especially the Jets. Given that the Jets prioritize fulfilling Rodgers’ requests, Adams was already in New York on Tuesday and is slated to play against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday night.

“I’m incredibly excited,” Rodgers shared in his regular appearance on The Pat McAfee Show. “I have a great deal of affection for Tae. He’s an outstanding player and a close friend.”

It’s clear why the Jets are so dedicated to keeping Rodgers happy. He is their route back to credibility.

Moreover, he is known for holding onto grudges, and the Jets must ensure he feels valued and acknowledged for this arrangement to succeed. If that means granting him influence over the roster, it seems a reasonable trade-off.

As long as it leads to positive results.

All excuses have vanished for Rodgers. He received what he wanted and now it’s time for him to perform.