New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers is one step closer to getting back on the field for a game, although whether or not that will happen this season is still unknown. Jets head coach Robert Saleh gave an update on Rodgers’ Achilles recovery, which is progressing much faster than many expected.
Saleh said Rodgers “pushed it” in practice Thursday, via ESPN. Rodgers practiced under center, tended to boots and jogged between drills. He participated in 7 on 7 and individual drills.
The head coach had a positive update, saying his quarterback “looks normal” to him. “It’s unbelievable. Credit to him, especially in this day and age where mud can affect a game week, but this guy is working hard to try to get himself back. It just shows how much he cares. I have appreciation for him,” Saleh said, via the Associated Press.
The Jets have until next Wednesday to activate Rodgers from injured reserve or he will remain there for the rest of the season. The Jets opened Rodgers’ 21-day practice window on Nov. 29 when he was cleared for football practice. Rodgers still has a few things to check off his recovery list, as he has yet to participate in 11-on-11 drills. According to the report, that game simulation will be the next challenge to beat number 8.
Rodgers tore his Achilles just four plays into the Jets’ first offensive drive of the 2023 campaign. The future Hall of Famer remained persistent and confident that he can return this season. He was previously seen walking under his own power much earlier than most with an Achilles injury, dropping back and throwing passes on the field before Jets games and now he’s back practicing with the team in a greater capacity than before.
Whether Rodgers will be able to play before the regular season ends and whether he should play are two topics of discussion surrounding the QB. The Jets are currently 5-8, sitting in third place in the AFC East, and would be out of the playoffs as the #13 seed if the season ended today.
Rodgers originally said he wouldn’t return this year if his team wasn’t in playoff contention, but later changed his mind, saying. he seeks to return regardless of how the team stands.
If the Jets have no playoff hopes when Rodgers is ready to return, putting him out there could risk another injury that could affect the 2024 season. With only four games remaining in the regular season, time is ticking on what would be a historic comeback.
Last week, New York snapped a five-game losing streak with a 30-6 win over the Houston Texans. Quarterback Zach Wilson, who had previously been benched, shined in the win.
