Edward Wesley Rodgers: The Full Story of Aaron Rodgers’ Father

When you hear the name Aaron Rodgers, you probably think of one of the best quarterbacks in NFL history. But behind that football legend is someone very important — Edward Wesley Rodgers, his father.

Edward isn’t just “Aaron’s dad.” He has his own story. He played football. He changed careers. He raised three sons. And he lived through a quiet family rift that lasted many years.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Edward Wesley Rodgers — where he came from, how he lived, and what really happened between him and Aaron. It’s a story of sports, family, love, and life’s ups and downs.

Edward Wesley Rodgers Quick Bio

Edward Wesley Rodgers’ Early Life

Edward Wesley Rodgers was born on February 9, 1955, in Texas, but he didn’t stay there long. He grew up in Lompoc, a small town in Southern California.

As a kid, Edward was full of energy. He loved being outdoors, playing with friends, and getting involved in sports. Life wasn’t fancy, but it was simple and strong. Those early years helped shape his values — hard work, family, and faith — which he later passed on to his children.

Even before Aaron was born, Edward already knew the importance of staying active, staying focused, and chasing your dreams.

Edward Wesley Rodgers and His College Football Days

Edward’s passion for football took him to Chico State University, where he played for the Chico State Wildcats from 1973 to 1976. He was an offensive lineman, which means he helped protect the quarterback and create space on the field.

He was strong, smart, and reliable on the team. After college, Edward hoped to keep playing. He tried out for the Canadian Football League (CFL) but didn’t make it. Still, he didn’t give up. He joined a semi-pro football team in California, where he helped his team win two national championships.

Even though Edward didn’t reach the NFL, he had a great football journey. It gave him lessons he would later use as a father — like staying disciplined, never quitting, and always giving your best.

Why Edward Wesley Rodgers Left Football

Every athlete has a moment when they have to ask, “What’s next?” For Edward, that moment came after college.

Even though he loved football, he started to see that the sport might not be his long-term path. He later admitted that partying and drinking got in the way during those years. That lifestyle made him lose focus, and it pushed him to think about a better, healthier future.

Edward decided to step away from the field. But he didn’t leave the world of sports completely. Instead, he chose something new — a career that would help others and still stay connected to athletic life.

Edward Wesley Rodgers Became a Sports Chiropractor

After leaving football, Edward went back to school. He studied Exercise Science and Physiology at Chico State — the same college where he played football.

He became a chiropractor and sports injury specialist. For over 30 years, Edward has helped people with pain, injuries, and healing. He focuses on treating the real cause of the pain, not just the symptoms. His goal is to help people move better, feel better, and live better.

Edward also became a member of the American College of Sports Medicine, which shows how serious he is about his work. He works with athletes, active adults, and anyone who wants to live a healthier life.

Even today, in 2026, he’s still known in his community for being a kind and skilled chiropractor.

The Marriage of Edward Wesley Rodgers and Darla Rodgers

In 1980, Edward married Darla Pittman Rodgers, a kind and talented woman who shared his love for sports. Darla was a college cheerleader and basketball player. She studied at Sacramento State and California State University.

Darla once said that her sons got their movement skills from her dancing background. And she might be right — all three Rodgers boys were quick, agile, and full of energy.

Edward and Darla built a strong marriage. They were together for over 40 years and raised their family with love, faith, and simple values. They were a true team — supporting each other in parenting, sports, and life.

Raising Three Sons with Strong Values

Edward and Darla had three sons: Luke, Aaron, and Jordan Rodgers. All three were active, curious, and full of energy. From a young age, they were drawn to sports — especially football.

Edward took his role as a father seriously. He didn’t just watch from the sidelines — he coached them, guided them, and taught them to stay focused. He warned them about the mistakes he made in his youth. He wanted them to avoid drinking, bad habits, and distractions.

He raised them to chase dreams with hard work and clear goals. Aaron, in particular, started watching football on TV when he was just two years old. That love for the game grew — and Edward helped shape it every step of the way.

Edward Wesley Rodgers’ Role in Aaron Rodgers’ Football Dream

Aaron Rodgers didn’t become a superstar overnight. It took years of training, discipline, and support. And one of the biggest influences behind it all was his father.

Edward was there from the beginning. He taught Aaron how to think like an athlete — not just physically, but mentally. He pushed him to be patient, to learn the game, and to never give up.

Even when things were tough — like when Aaron was passed over by major colleges — Edward reminded him to stay humble and focused. He believed in Aaron’s talent long before the world did.

Thanks to that early guidance, Aaron went on to become an NFL MVP and Super Bowl champion. And deep down, his dad’s lessons played a big part in that success.

Why Aaron Rodgers Cut Ties with His Father

Even though Edward Wesley Rodgers and Aaron Rodgers shared a strong bond in the early years, something changed over time.

In 2014, Aaron reportedly cut off all contact with his family. According to sources close to the family, he stopped replying to calls and texts. When Edward and Darla sent Christmas gifts, the packages were returned. It wasn’t just a small disagreement — it was a total silence.

Edward didn’t share many details. He simply said in a 2017 interview, “Fame can change things.” That one sentence said a lot. Being famous can bring pressure, distance, and pain — even in close families.

No one knows exactly what caused the break. Some say it was about relationships, some say it was personal growth, and others say it was just a mix of life changes. But one thing was clear — Edward Wesley Rodgers and Aaron were no longer speaking for years.

Their Silent Reunion in 2023

In the summer of 2023, something surprising happened.

Aaron was playing in a celebrity golf tournament in Lake Tahoe. Quietly, without telling anyone, Edward showed up to watch from the crowd. He didn’t go to make a scene. He just wanted to see his son.

Aaron noticed him. At first, he looked away. But then, something changed. He walked toward Edward and simply said, “Hi Pops.” That small moment led to a quiet hug — the first in almost a decade.

It wasn’t a big public event. There were no interviews or announcements. But that soft, simple hug meant a lot. It was a step forward — maybe not a full reunion, but a start.

Later, Aaron shared, “I don’t have any anger toward him. I still love him.” And that gave many people hope.

Edward Wesley Rodgers at Aaron’s Jets Debut

Later that year, Edward and Darla went to watch Aaron’s first game with the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium.

It was a big moment for the family. But sadly, just minutes into the game, Aaron fell to the ground. He had torn his Achilles tendon, a serious injury that ended his season right away.

Edward said it was one of the saddest moments he’d seen. He was sitting quietly in the stands. People around them didn’t even know who he was. Everyone was just shocked and silent.

They didn’t get a chance to speak to Aaron after the game. But Edward was there, showing love — the kind of love that doesn’t need words. The kind that just stays, even when things hurt.

A Proud Father Despite the Distance

Even during the years of silence, Edward Wesley Rodgers never stopped caring about his sons.

His oldest son, Luke, once called Edward his “hero.” He said his dad taught him how to be a good man, husband, and father. His youngest son, Jordan, also speaks highly of Edward. He’s always praised his father’s guidance and values.

Edward has stayed proud of Aaron too. In 2020, even when they weren’t speaking much, he said he was proud of how Aaron handled the pressure around COVID-19 vaccines and public criticism.

The bond may have been strained, but the love was always there — quiet, strong, and steady.

Where Is Edward Wesley Rodgers Now?

As of 2026, Edward Wesley Rodgers is still living in Chico, California with his wife Darla. Their life is simple and peaceful.

Edward still works as a chiropractor and sports injury specialist. He doesn’t appear in the news or give interviews. He prefers to live quietly, focusing on helping people heal and staying close to his family.

He’s known in the community for being caring, thoughtful, and skilled at what he does. Many people see him not just as a doctor, but as someone who truly listens and helps.

Even if he’s not in the spotlight, Edward’s story continues — a story of hard work, healing, and quiet strength.

Final Thoughts

Edward Wesley Rodgers is more than just Aaron Rodgers’ father. He’s a man with his own journey — one that started on a football field, continued in a healing practice, and faced both joy and heartbreak along the way.

He raised three strong sons. He walked through a painful silence. He showed up, quietly and lovingly, even when things were hard.

And maybe that’s the most powerful part of his story — he kept showing up. Not for attention. Not for fame. Just for family.

(FAQs)

What is Edward Wesley Rodgers’ net worth in 2026?

Edward’s estimated net worth in 2026 is $2 to $3 million, mostly from his long career as a chiropractor — not football. He made his fortune helping people heal, not playing on TV.

Is Edward Wesley Rodgers really still working as a chiropractor?

Yes — even at 70, Edward is still a licensed chiropractor in California. He’s been helping athletes and regular folks for over 30 years, and he’s still going strong.

How old is Edward Wesley Rodgers now?

Edward Wesley Rodgers was born on February 9, 1955, which makes him 71 years old in 2026. Hard to believe the father of an NFL legend is still working full-time!

How tall is Edward Wesley Rodgers?

Edward is about 6 feet 1 inch tall (185 cm). He played as an offensive lineman in college football, so his build still shows that athletic past.

What is Edward Wesley Rodgers’ religion today?

Edward is a Christian, and he raised his sons with strong faith and values. Even after Aaron took a different spiritual path, Edward stayed true to his beliefs — without drama.

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