When Aaron Rodgers joined the New York Jets in 2023, he quickly formed a close friendship with teammate Sauce Gardner, despite their nearly 20-year age difference. The pair became well-known for their playful interactions, often seen together at basketball games and performing a unique handshake they developed. However, as Rodgers transitions to his new team, the Pittsburgh Steelers, the communication between the two has noticeably dwindled.
In a recent interview with Complex, Gardner shared that while their conversations were frequent during the early offseason, they began to decrease once Rodgers’s move to the Steelers became apparent. Gardner playfully noted the irony of facing each other as opponents in Week 1 of the NFL season, but clarified that this was just a joke. The cornerback reassured fans that there are no hard feelings or disputes between him and Rodgers, suggesting that their friendship remains intact despite the distance.
Gardner’s comments reflect a common dynamic where colleagues may naturally speak less after one moves on to a different opportunity. Both players are looking forward to their match-up in the upcoming season, which adds an engaging subplot as fans anticipate how this friendship may play out on the field.
As the NFL season approaches, this storyline not only excites fans but also highlights the evolving nature of professional relationships in sports. It’s a reminder that personal connections can thrive even amid competitive circumstances.