Rodgers defends Wilson, says starting rumor QB didn't want to play is 'chickenshit'

Aaron Rodgers came to the defense of Zach Wilson on Tuesday after it was reported the day prior that the young quarterback was hesitant to play again this season despite the New York Jets wanting to turn back to him.

The four-time MVP expressed disappointment that someone within the Jets would potentially leak damaging information to the media.

"I think it's chickenshit at its core, and I think it has no place in a winning organization," Rodgers said on "The Pat McAfee Show."

The veteran added that New York needs "to get to the bottom of whatever this is coming from."

Rodgers, who has often criticized the NFL media and its practices, said the report could do permanent harm to Wilson's reputation.

"When you use sources and, whether intentional or unintentional, try to assassinate someone's character like that report does for Zach, I have a real hard time with that," Rodgers said.

He added: "You're basically saying that this kid is quitting on the team and doesn't want to play and is giving the middle finger to the organization."

Rodgers said Wilson has "gone through a lot of shit" since being drafted No. 2 overall in 2021 and has "every right" to be frustrated with his first three years in the NFL.

Jets head coach Robert Saleh denied that Wilson didn't want to play in a press conference Monday while opting against naming a starter for Week 14.

"If he was reluctant to play, he wouldn't be here," he said.

New York reportedly didn't want to play Wilson again this season after benching him ahead of Week 12, but the organization changed its mind after a woeful offensive performance in last Sunday's loss to the Atlanta Falcons.

Wilson was playing in place of Rodgers after the star signal-caller tore his Achilles in Week 1. Rodgers has returned to practice but is reportedly unlikely to suit up again this season, with New York all but eliminated from postseason contention.

The Jets made a move at quarterback Tuesday, releasing Tim Boyle - who started the last two games - and signing Brett Rypien off the Seattle Seahawks' practice squad, sources told Josina Anderson of CBS Sports.