When New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers suffered an Achilles tear heard around the world on Monday Night Football against the Buffalo Bills, many wondered if the NFL had seen the last of the 39-year-old future Hall of Famer. Fortunately, it appears the four-time MVP isn't quite ready to hang up his cleats. Rodgers took to Instagram on Wednesday to assure his followers he shall "rise again."
Rodgers played all of four snaps against the Bills before absorbing a sack that ended his season. He was quickly helped off the field and declared out. He underwent an MRI on Tuesday, at which point Jets head coach Robert Saleh revealed the extent of the injury. By all accounts, Rodgers' Achilles tear will cost him the 2023 season.
Rodgers' injury is an all-time disappointment for a franchise that appeared on the cusp of contention. The Jets traded for Rodgers this offseason hoping he might put them over the top, but now they'll forever be haunted by what could have been.
Even without their prized offseason acquisition, the Jets pulled off a miracle against their AFC East rival Bills, stealing an overtime win with a walk-off punt return touchdown. It was a game that illustrated the depth and quality of the Jets roster beyond the quarterback position; they bested a perennial contender despite a mere 117 net passing yards combined from Rodgers and backup Zach Wilson.
Rodgers' intentions to return should be heartening to Jets fans, but there's still no guarantee their team will be able to capitalize on their supposed Super Bowl window. Even if Rodgers can return from a catastrophic injury for his age-40 season in 2024, he'll be another year removed from his prime. As optimistic as Rodgers purports to be, the Jets would be wise to find a young quarterback around which to build their future.
Photo Credit: © Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
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