Colin Cowherd stops defending Aaron Rodgers after Favre comparison

Colin Cowherd told listeners on his FS1 show on Sunday that he will no longer defend Aaron Rodgers after the quarterback likened his own play to that of Hall of Famer Brett Favre. The comment came minutes after Rodgers’ New York Jets fell 31‑7 to the New England Patriots in Week 2, their second straight loss. Cowherd said the comparison crossed a line and that he can’t keep shielding Rodgers from criticism.

Rodgers’ remarks sparked a fresh wave of debate because his career has been built on precision and poise, not the “gunslinger” reputation that defined Favre. The Jets have struggled to find rhythm under their new leader, posting a 0‑2 start and ranking near the bottom of the league in passing yards per game. Fans and analysts have already questioned Rodgers’ adjustment to a new offensive system and his chemistry with a rookie receiving corps. Cowherd, who has been a vocal advocate for Rodgers since his high‑profile move from Green Bay to New York, previously dismissed doubts as “media noise.”

The shift in Cowherd’s stance follows a series of missteps that have put Rodgers under the microscope. In the Patriots game he completed 18 of 28 passes for 150 yards, threw two touchdowns and two interceptions, and failed to lead a scoring drive in the first half. After the loss, Rodgers said, “I’m trying to bring that Favre energy—take risks, make big plays.” Cowherd had earlier brushed off similar comments as harmless confidence, but this time he said, “When a player starts comparing himself to a quarterback who also had a roller‑coaster career, it’s a sign we need to be honest about the issues.”

What happens next will test both the Jets and the media narrative. Rodgers is expected to face a hostile crowd in his next game against the Buffalo Bills, and analysts say he must tighten his decision‑making to avoid further criticism. Cowherd’s decision to step back may signal a broader media reassessment of Rodgers’ early season performance, and could influence how other commentators address the quarterback’s future with the franchise. The Jets have a chance to reset in Week 3, but the spotlight on Rodgers is unlikely to dim anytime soon.