In a remarkable turn of events, Aaron Rodgers, the veteran quarterback of the New York Jets, has taken the next step in his incredible comeback journey after suffering a torn Achilles tendon earlier this season. The Jets officially opened a 21-day practice window for Rodgers, marking a significant milestone in his recovery process.
Exactly 11 weeks after undergoing surgery for the Achilles injury, Rodgers has been cleared for limited football activities. Coach Robert Saleh confirmed that while Rodgers is back on the practice field, he is not yet cleared for contact. This development is seen as the next phase of Rodgers’ rehabilitation and does not necessarily signal his return to playing this season.
During this 21-day period, the Jets will closely monitor Rodgers’ progress and evaluate his readiness to return to the active roster. The decision to activate him or place him on injured reserve will be made by December 20, just four days before the Jets’ home game against the Washington Commanders.
While Rodgers’ comeback is generating excitement, Coach Saleh stressed that caution is paramount. Players coming off injured reserve often require additional time to regain full health and fitness. The focus now is on assessing Rodgers’ rehabilitation progress rather than rushing him back onto the field.
Rodgers initially suffered the devastating Achilles tendon injury just four snaps into his debut with the Jets on September 11, leading to surgery just days later. Notably, his operation included a specialized “speed bridge” procedure designed to expedite the healing process. His rapid recovery has defied expectations, and his determination to return to action has been nothing short of inspirational.
The quarterback’s return this season hinges on two key factors: his health and the Jets’ position in the AFC playoff race. Rodgers emphasized that his primary concern is his physical well-being, followed closely by the team’s playoff prospects. The Jets currently stand at a 4-7 record and have lost four consecutive games, making their playoff hopes uncertain.
Critics have questioned whether Rodgers might be pushing his recovery too quickly, potentially risking reinjury. Last season, running back Cam Akers, then with the Los Angeles Rams, set a benchmark by returning to play just five months after suffering a torn Achilles tendon, helping his team reach the Super Bowl. If Rodgers does return this season, he could surpass that impressive timeline by several weeks.
Coach Saleh dismissed concerns about Rodgers’ approach, emphasizing that the quarterback is both driven and smart. He has achieved remarkable progress in his rehabilitation, and while his comeback is swift, it’s also well-considered and managed.
In addition to Rodgers, the Jets have also opened 21-day practice windows for special teams ace Justin Hardee and offensive lineman Wes Schweitzer, both of whom were limited in practice. Several other players, including Mekhi Becton, Michael Carter II, Will McDonald, and Billy Turner, were also listed as limited due to various injuries. Rookie RB Israel Abanikanda sat out of practice due to illness.
Despite being benched last week, wide receiver Allen Lazard is expected to return to play against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday. Lazard and Coach Saleh discussed the decision, and the receiver understands the reasoning behind it.
The saga of Aaron Rodgers’ improbable comeback continues to captivate fans and experts alike. As the Jets carefully navigate his rehabilitation process, the football world watches with bated breath, wondering if Rodgers can accomplish the seemingly impossible and make a triumphant return to the field.
