Aaron Rodgers Steps Back onto the Field But Unsure About This Season's Comeback
Back in September, Head Coach Robert Saleh announced that Rodgers would be out for the rest of the year following his poor performance in the season opener against the Buffalo Bills. In a recent Jets-posted clip, Rodgers is seen working on his recuperation, throwing balls and snapping photos. Despite the progress, Saleh remarked on Wednesday that Rodgers' training was more about healing than readying for a game.
Before his comeback, Saleh emphasized that Rodgers would only be partaking in non-contact activities, such as ball-tossing at teammates, with no risk to himself. Saleh praised Rodgers' dedication during his recovery and considered it well-deserved, commenting on his love for the team and teammates, and the sacrifices he had made for him and them.
The news of Rodgers' potential return set social media alight, with even NBA superstar LeBron James reacting positively with an astonished tweet. After appearing on "The Pat McAfee Show" on Tuesday, Rodgers revealed that he was unable to determine if he could play again this season.
Saleh expressed his belief that Rodgers would quickly recover from his injury, praising him for his relentless positivity despite the challenges he faced. For his part, Rodgers expected a swift recovery but hoped to reassess his situation in December, just in case the team might still make the playoffs.
The time the Jets have to assess Rodgers' condition is limited to 21 days according to NFL.com, as Rodgers remains on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. The 4-7 Jets still have six regular-season matches left in the tourney.
In case Rodgers gets a green light for his return, the first game he could participate in would be against the Washington Commanders on Christmas Day. Rodgers spent the first 18 seasons of his football career with the Green Bay Packers, transferring to the Jets during the recent 2023 off-season.
Beginning his NFL career in 2005, Rodgers has compiled an impressive resume, leading the Packers to the Super Bowl XLV victory in February 2011, and being named NFL MVP in 2011, 2014, 2020, and 2021. Alongside his notable achievements, Rodgers has also set numerous precision records, setting him up nicely for his Hall of Fame inductee.
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Rodgers has shown promise during his recovery, and while the New York Jets have suggested that they would prefer to explore a new direction at the QB position, the potential four-time MVP remains hopeful for a late-season comeback if the team still harbors any chance of making the playoffs.
