In the sprawling galaxy of sports documentaries (think Hard Knocks or 30 for 30), the Netflix documentary Aaron Rodgers: Enigma explores the Hall of Fame quarterback’s personal, professional and spiritual life. As a lifelong NY Jets fan, I enthusiastically pressed play, hoping to learn more about the NFL MVP.
The series’ three episodes focus on a different facets of Rodgers’ life. From his record-breaking days with the Packers and playing through the pandemic to his new chapter with the Jets, the show dives deep into #12, err…#8. But it doesn’t stop there. His foray into alternative medicines, public musings on philosophy and science, and a potential political career alongside RFK Jr. all get their time in the spotlight.
Rodgers is fascinating, but often frustratingly opaque. His interviews vacillate between profound and pretentious, leaving viewers unsure if they’re witnessing a genius at work or a man simply enjoying the sound of his own voice.
The series pacing, which starts strong with riveting football highlights and behind-the-scenes locker room drama, dramatically slows in episode two and three, which focus heavily on Rodgers’ off-field musings—his explorations into ayahuasca and darkness retreats, his public debates about vaccines and his philosophical detours into everything from holistic medicine to astrology.
In focusing so much on the drama, the series risks alienating viewers who tuned in hoping for a celebration of Rodgers’ athletic genius. Instead, they get a documentary that places significant emphasis on his personal crossroads and controversies and reminds viewers that he’s just a man, not a superhero.
Ultimately, Aaron Rodgers: Enigma lives up to its name. It’s an introspective and compelling dive into the life and legend of a football superstar. Love him or loathe him, Rodgers knows how to take back the narrative and keep an audience guessing—and this series captures that essence perfectly.
RHFC Rating: 7/10 🍿
