After leading the New York Jets to a commanding 27-3 victory over their division rivals, the New England Patriots, Rodgers took to Instagram to celebrate the milestone. The win, which marked his first at MetLife Stadium as the Jets’ quarterback, came with plenty of emotion and pride. In his Instagram Story, Rodgers shared a celebratory post from the Jets, simply captioning it “W” with a heart and the “love you” hand gesture emoji. He also included the hashtag “#ThisIs40,” signaling his enthusiasm for the next chapter of his career.
Rodgers’ performance during the Thursday night game was nothing short of impressive, especially considering it was his first home game since suffering a devastating Achilles tear in the 2023 season opener. The 40-year-old quarterback finished the game with 281 passing yards, completing 27 of 35 attempts and throwing two touchdowns. Not only did he shine through the air, but Rodgers also demonstrated his mobility, rushing three times for 18 yards, a reassuring sign for Jets fans who chanted his name throughout the game.
“It was a really special night,” Rodgers told reporters after the game. “All those chants are really meaningful.”
The night had an added layer of nostalgia for Rodgers, as he rekindled his connection with former Green Bay Packers teammate Allen Lazard. The pair linked up three times for 48 yards, including a 10-yard touchdown in the first quarter. This touchdown was especially significant, as it marked Lazard’s third of the season and highlighted the chemistry that has carried over from their days in Green Bay.
RELATED: What Did Aaron Rodgers Say to Robert Saleh While Pushing Him Away After Jets Touchdown?
Reflecting on the moment, Lazard expressed his joy in sharing Rodgers’ milestone with him. “Going into the San Francisco game, I told him I wanted the first touchdown he threw as a Jet. And after I got that, I wanted his first touchdown here at JetLife Stadium,” Lazard said. “The way his season ended here last year and everything, it was a special moment for us. Just so happy for him. To be able to make it back here, being 40 years old, coming off an Achilles, playing three games in 10 days — I’m proud of everyone, especially him. And it was a special moment for us.”
This victory was also Rodgers’ first official home win at MetLife, a meaningful accomplishment after last season’s injury derailed his debut campaign with the Jets. Now fully recovered and eager to make an impact, Rodgers is focused on helping the Jets turn a new page.
“We’re trying to change this whole attitude around here,” Rodgers told Prime Video’s Kaylee Hartung after the game. “We’re trying to build something special here, get these fans to believe in us. They’ve been tortured for a long time. Last year was obviously a tough year, but it’s good to be back, it’s good to be healthy.”
Rodgers took a moment to reflect on his journey back to the field, expressing gratitude for those who helped him recover and regain his form. “So many people that I’m thankful for that got me to this point, but it’s great to be a Jet, great to have nights like this,” he added.
At 40 years old, Rodgers is embracing his role as the leader of the Jets, and his return to MetLife Stadium felt like the beginning of a fresh chapter.
With a dominant performance behind him and a determined mindset, Rodgers is clearly ready to lead the Jets toward bigger goals, giving the long-suffering fanbase hope for the future.
