Julian Edelman: Aaron Rodgers' Minicamp Absence a 'Bad Look'

Former Patriots receiver Julian Edelman criticized New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers for missing a mandatory minicamp, calling it a "bad look" for his leadership.

Julian Edelman, the legendary former New England Patriots receiver, has weighed in on the controversy surrounding Aaron Rodgers' absence from the New York Jets' mandatory minicamp. Speaking on Fox Sports' "The Herd with Colin Cowherd," Edelman expressed his belief that Rodgers' unexcused absence was a "bad look" for his leadership.

"I think it's a bad look for your leader, for whatever reason, to go and miss an unexcused absence," Edelman said. "I was with Tom Brady in his 25th year or 23rd year, and he started missing OTAs here and there, but he never missed a mandatory minicamp. I just thought it was a bad look."

Julian Edelman: Aaron Rodgers' Minicamp Absence a 'Bad Look'

Edelman went on to explain why he felt this way, citing the importance of setting a good example for the team, especially in the face of potential adversity.

"I know a lot of people do things differently," he began. "But God forbid the New York Jets start 1-3 at the beginning of the season, which they start with the [San Francisco] Niners, Tennessee [Titans], [New England] Patriots and someone else regardless. We all know the Patriots are no good, but that defense is still the same defense, and that's who Aaron goes against.

Julian Edelman: Aaron Rodgers' Minicamp Absence a 'Bad Look'

"If they go 1-3, this is going to be such a big distraction for that locker room. Because everyone is going to be talking about it – this is New York City. It's the media capital of the world."

Edelman acknowledged that Rodgers' absence may not be a major issue if the Jets get off to a good start, but he believes it could become a significant distraction if they struggle.

Julian Edelman: Aaron Rodgers' Minicamp Absence a 'Bad Look'

"I'm a big Aaron Rodgers fan, but if I was in that locker room, and Aaron Rodgers wasn't there for three days on the mandatory minicamp, having played four snaps off of an injury when we have two new receivers, a bunch of new linemen that we added to the team, with a CBA that doesn't allow us to practice a lot, I guarantee there's four or five guys – six, seven, eight, nine guys in that locker room – sitting there like, 'Where's he at?'" Edelman said.

Edelman's comments echo those of other former NFL players, including Rex Ryan and Jay Glazer, who have also criticized Rodgers' absence. While some have defended Rodgers' decision, citing his experience and leadership qualities, others believe it sets a poor example for younger players.

Ultimately, the impact of Rodgers' absence remains to be seen. However, Edelman's criticism serves as a reminder of the importance of leadership and setting a good example for one's teammates.