Jets' Rodgers -- Hope to finish well, but not out to prove anything - ESPN

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers sent a strong message Wednesday to team ownership — and perhaps potential future employers.

Despite his struggles, Rodgers said he has nothing to prove over the final five games, inferring that his career accomplishments should supersede his performance down the stretch. The four-time MVP said it would be «ridiculous» to make a player with his resume audition for next season.

«If they want me to stay, fantastic,» the four-time MVP said. «If it takes these five games, maybe they don't know what I bring to the table. But that being said, I'd love to play really frigging well the last five games.»

One source said recently that he'd he «shocked» if owner Woody Johnson signs off on another season of Rodgers, who is having one of the worst statistical seasons of his career. The NFL Network reported that Rodgers will need a strong finish to have a chance at returning next season.

The Rodgers-Johnson relationship has come under the spotlight recently with reports that Johnson, in a meeting with team officials and coaches, suggested benching Rodgers in Week 5.

On Wednesday, Rodgers made a cryptic comment about Johnson regarding the in-season firings of coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas. It came in response to a discussion Tuesday on «The Pat McAfee Show.»

During his weekly appearance on the show, Rodgers — in general terms — stressed the importance of ownership remaining publicly supportive of team officials during tough times. He used the Detroit Lions as an example of a franchise that did that and has flourished.

In his weekly news conference Wednesday, Rodgers was asked specifically about whether Johnson has been publicly supportive.

«Is that a