Aaron Rodgers: The Fifth NFL Player to Throw 500 Touchdown Passes
In the world of professional football, the ability to throw a touchdown pass is one of the most celebrated and revered feats a quarterback can achieve. It’s a moment that can change the course of a game, and for the men who throw them, it often represents the peak of their careers. In 2025, Aaron Rodgers, the legendary quarterback known for his remarkable arm strength, precision, and leadership, etched his name into the history books once again by becoming the fifth player in NFL history to throw 500 career touchdown passes.
This milestone is a testament to Rodgers’ longevity, skill, and consistency as one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in NFL history. From his early days as a highly touted draft pick to his time with the Green Bay Packers and now with the New York Jets, Rodgers’ journey to 500 touchdown passes is nothing short of extraordinary.
Early Years: The Rise of Aaron Rodgers
Aaron Rodgers was born on December 2, 1983, in Chico, California. His path to NFL stardom was not as straightforward as some of his contemporaries. While Rodgers showed immense talent as a high school quarterback, he was not initially considered a top-tier college recruit. He played two years at Butte Community College before transferring to the University of California, Berkeley, where he quickly made a name for himself as one of the best quarterbacks in college football.
Rodgers’ strong arm, quick release, and ability to read defenses made him an attractive prospect for NFL scouts. After a standout college career, Rodgers was selected by the Green Bay Packers with the 24th overall pick in the 2005 NFL Draft. However, he didn’t immediately become the starting quarterback. Rodgers spent his first three seasons in Green Bay as the backup to legendary quarterback Brett Favre, who was entrenched as the team’s starter.
While Rodgers’ first few years were spent learning behind Favre, the seeds of his future success were already being planted. Rodgers was a student of the game, absorbing everything he could from the veteran quarterback. In 2008, when Favre retired and then returned before being traded to the New York Jets, Rodgers was finally given the keys to the Packers’ offense.
The Green Bay Packers Era: A Storied Career Begins
Rodgers took over as the starting quarterback for the Packers in 2008 and immediately showcased his immense potential. Despite a disappointing 6-10 record in his first season as a starter, Rodgers threw for over 4,000 yards and 28 touchdowns, setting the stage for what would become one of the most prolific careers in NFL history.
In the years that followed, Rodgers’ development was nothing short of spectacular. His ability to make throws from all angles, his accuracy, and his ability to read defenses quickly made him one of the most feared quarterbacks in the NFL. By the 2010 season, Rodgers had fully established himself as one of the league’s elite quarterbacks.
That year, Rodgers led the Packers to the Super Bowl, where they defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 31-25. Rodgers was named Super Bowl MVP after throwing for over 300 yards and three touchdowns in the game. It was the first of many postseason successes for Rodgers, who would go on to become known for his clutch performances in big games.
Throughout his time with the Packers, Rodgers amassed numerous accolades. He was named the NFL MVP three times (2011, 2014, and 2020) and consistently ranked among the league’s top quarterbacks in passing yards, touchdown passes, and passer rating. Rodgers’ unique blend of physical talent, mental acuity, and leadership helped elevate the Packers to perennial contenders in the NFC.
The 500 Touchdown Milestone: A Career Benchmark
As Rodgers entered his 17th season in the NFL in 2025, the prospect of reaching 500 career touchdown passes was within his grasp. He had already surpassed the 400 and 450 touchdown milestones in previous seasons, and with his continued strong play, 500 was the next major benchmark on the horizon.
Rodgers reached the 500-touchdown threshold during a game between the New York Jets and the Miami Dolphins in Week 13 of the 2025 season. The Jets, having acquired Rodgers in the offseason, were in the midst of a playoff push, and the pressure to perform was mounting. Despite the intense scrutiny that came with being traded to a new team and the challenges of adapting to a new offensive system, Rodgers remained poised and focused.
In the game against the Dolphins, Rodgers found tight end Tyler Conklin for a touchdown pass that marked his 500th career touchdown. The milestone was celebrated on the field by his teammates and coaches, and it was a moment of triumph for Rodgers, who had overcome numerous challenges in his career to reach such a prestigious mark.
Rodgers became the fifth player in NFL history to throw 500 career touchdown passes, joining an exclusive club that included legendary quarterbacks such as Tom Brady, Drew Brees, Peyton Manning, and Brett Favre. His 500th touchdown pass also served as a reminder of the incredible longevity and consistency he had displayed throughout his career, making him one of the greatest quarterbacks the game has ever seen.
The Significance of the 500 Touchdown Passes Milestone
The 500-touchdown pass milestone is a significant achievement in the NFL, as it reflects not only a quarterback’s skill but also his ability to stay healthy and maintain a high level of performance over an extended period. In a league where quarterbacks often face intense physical challenges and the threat of injury, reaching 500 career touchdowns is a testament to Rodgers’ durability and his ability to adapt his game as he aged.
Rodgers’ achievement also speaks to the evolution of the quarterback position in the NFL. When quarterbacks like Joe Montana, Terry Bradshaw, and even Brett Favre played the game, passing offenses were not as prolific as they are today. The NFL has evolved into a more pass-heavy league, with quarterbacks having more opportunities to throw the ball than ever before. Rodgers, with his quick release and incredible accuracy, has been one of the primary beneficiaries of this evolution.
However, even with the increased focus on the passing game, reaching 500 career touchdown passes is a rare and difficult accomplishment. Tom Brady, the all-time leader in touchdown passes, holds the record with over 700 career touchdowns, but his longevity and success are unparalleled. Rodgers, by reaching 500, solidified his place in NFL history as one of the all-time greats in a league full of legendary quarterbacks.
Aaron Rodgers’ Legacy in the NFL
As Rodgers continues to perform at a high level with the New York Jets in 2025, the conversation about his legacy is only growing louder. He has already established himself as one of the most talented quarterbacks in NFL history, with a resume that includes:
- 3 MVP awards
- 1 Super Bowl victory
- 10 Pro Bowl selections
- Over 500 career touchdown passes
- Numerous records for passing efficiency and passer rating
Beyond the individual accolades, Rodgers’ legacy will be defined by his impact on the teams he played for and the quarterbacks who followed in his footsteps. He is known for his ability to elevate the play of his teammates, and his clutch performances in crucial moments have made him one of the most feared quarterbacks in the league.
Rodgers’ time with the Packers will always be remembered as the period when he transformed the team into a perennial contender and delivered the franchise’s fourth Super Bowl title. But his move to the Jets in 2025 has added another layer to his legacy. By helping to turn the Jets into a competitive team, Rodgers has once again proven that his influence extends beyond just putting up impressive individual statistics.
The Future: What’s Next for Aaron Rodgers?
As Aaron Rodgers approaches the twilight years of his career, many wonder how much longer he can continue playing at such a high level. In 2025, at 41 years old, Rodgers has shown no signs of slowing down. His 500th career touchdown pass is just the latest chapter in a story that seems far from finished.
Rodgers’ future in the NFL will likely depend on his ability to maintain his health and his passion for the game. He has previously stated that he intends to play for as long as he feels physically and mentally sharp, and with his competitive drive and meticulous attention to detail, it wouldn’t be surprising if he continues to defy expectations for years to come.
The New York Jets’ future will also be tied to Rodgers’ performance. If he can lead them to a championship and further cement his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, it will only add to his already illustrious career.
