While New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers hinted last season that he might be healthy enough to return to the field, reality seems to paint a different picture as he continues to be handled with caution by the Jets’ coaching staff. With just a month left before the NFL season kicks off, Rodgers was notably held out of practice on Thursday, August 8, due to rainy conditions in New Jersey.
The decision to sideline the 40-year-old future Hall of Famer was made by Jets head coach Robert Saleh, who explained that the wet conditions posed an unnecessary risk. Despite Rodgers’ desire to practice, Saleh opted for caution, prioritizing the quarterback’s long-term health over a single training session.
“I just didn’t want to expose him to it,” Saleh explained during his post-practice press conference. “If it was a game or a regular practice in dry conditions, he would’ve been out there. Call it overprotection, but it’s a decision I felt was necessary.”
Saleh acknowledged that Rodgers wasn’t thrilled about being sidelined for something as minor as a bit of rain. “He pushed back, he really wanted to go,” Saleh added. “But in the grand scheme of things, we’re thinking ahead to Week 1.”
The decision to keep Rodgers out of practice could raise some concerns among Jets fans, especially as it comes nearly 11 months after the quarterback’s Achilles injury.
The lingering question remains whether the surgically repaired Achilles can hold up throughout an entire NFL season, particularly given Rodgers’ age and the physical demands of the game.
The Jets are set to begin their 2024 season exactly one month from now, with a highly anticipated Monday Night Football matchup against the San Francisco 49ers on September 9. Despite the cautious approach, when Rodgers has been on the field during practice, reports have been glowing. He has shown great chemistry with star wide receiver Garrett Wilson, and during a joint practice session with the Washington Commanders, Rodgers reportedly torched cornerback Emmanuel Forbes with precision passes.
If Rodgers can stay healthy and perform at the high level he’s known for, the Jets have a solid shot at breaking their 13-year playoff drought—the longest current streak in American professional sports. However, as the season approaches, all eyes will be on Rodgers’ Achilles and whether it can withstand the rigors of a full NFL season.
