Namath said a long time ago that he wanted AR to wear 12
https://nypost.com/2023/01/19/joe-namath-wants-aaron-rodgers-to-wear-his-no-12-with-the-jets/
"Joe Namath has a gracious offer for Aaron Rodgers.
The Jets legend called into WFAN’s “Tiki & Tierney” on Thursday and made the case for Rodgers to join Gang Green — and wear his long-retired no. 12 jersey.
“I hope it can come true but it’s farfetched: I know Mr. [Jets owner Woody] Johnson’s trying to get a quarterback. If there’s a way he can get Rodgers … I’m a big Rodgers fan, and I noticed that he wears number 12 of course. Man, if we get him, is he still going to wearing number 12? Because that number was retired years ago…”
Namath was informed by the hosts that this would be his decision to adjudicate.
“Well, it’s on ownership. It’s different ownership. Different people. And I’d sure love Rodgers if he’s there. Yeah, I
want him to wear his number. We established ourselves and we’ve got a real respect for our numbers, and Aaron Rodgers, God almighty, yeah! It’d be great to have him in New York.”"