Aaron Rodgers has been a regular participant in the voluntary parts of the Jets’ offseason program. But he didn’t show up for the first day of the team’s mandatory minicamp.
They felt that the lack of jets was inexcusable. Also, according to a source familiar with the situation, Rodgers will be fined.
Under the CBA, the penalty for missing the first day of mandatory minicamp is $16,953. It was a drop for Rodgers. But it sends a clear message.
The question is whether the Jets are willing to excuse the absence. The collective bargaining agreement expressly addresses the absence of “unexcused” absences. It implies that absence can be forgiven.
The CPA further states, “[d]All players will be disciplined uniformly at a club for the same offence. So, if the Jets pardon Rodgers instead of whatever event he chooses to attend, it could set a precedent for other players.
Regardless of those laws, the situation might have been handled differently. If Weeks’ absence was expected, it could have been leaked or revealed that Rodgers wouldn’t be there. It would have been less chaotic than what happened on Tuesday, especially since he attended most, if not all, of the volunteer sessions.
Regardless, the Jets didn’t excuse the absence. The Jets will fine Rodgers. It will be interesting to see what Rodgers has to say about that whenever he talks to reporters again. Or whenever he appears next on the safe haven of a Rodgers-friendly podcast.
