Jets' Aaron Rodgers - 'Sandy Hook was an absolute tragedy' - ESPN

Aaron Rodgers said in a social media post that he has «never been of the opinion» that the shooting deaths of 20 children and six adults at Sandy Hook Elementary School in 2012 didn't take place.

Rodgers' statement comes a day after CNN reported that he shared beliefs that the shooting at Sandy Hook in Newtown, Connecticut, wasn't real with at least two people, including journalist Pamela Brown.

«As I'm on the record saying in the past, what happened in Sandy Hook was an absolute tragedy. I am not and have never been of the opinion that the events did not take place,» the New York Jets quarterback posted to X on Thursday. «Again, I hope that we learn from this and other tragedies to identify the signs that will allow us to prevent unnecessary loss of life. My thoughts and prayers continue to remain with the families affected along with the entire Sandy Hook community.»

CNN's report came after The New York Times reported that independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was considering Rodgers and former pro wrestler and Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura to be his running mate for the 2024 election.

Rodgers, 40, a four-time NFL MVP and former Super Bowl champion with the Green Bay Packers, is an ardent Kennedy supporter, frequently mentioning him in interviews. Kennedy said he will announce his running mate March 26.

Rodgers has talked enthusiastically about returning this season for the Jets, especially after the disappointment of 2023. He suffered a torn Achilles on the fourth play of the first game, ending his season barely after it started.

Information from ESPN's Rich Cimini was used in this report.