Aaron Rodgers is gearing up for a potentially miraculous comeback, setting the stage for a potential shake-up in the NFL on Christmas Eve.
NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport reports that the New York Jets’ quarterback, Rodgers, may target a return from his Week 1 Achilles injury on December 24 when the Jets host the Washington Commanders.
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Traded by the Green Bay Packers, his team since being drafted in the first round of the 2005 NFL Draft, Rodgers moved to the Jets to enhance his playoff prospects and reunite with offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett, instrumental in helping him secure the 2021 league MVP award with the Packers.
However, two key conditions must be met for Rodgers’ remarkable comeback. First, the Jets must be in playoff contention during the last three weeks of the season. With a current record of 4-5 going into Week 11, the Jets are set to face four teams currently in the AFC playoff picture over the next five weeks, including the Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins (twice), Cleveland Browns, and Houston Texans.
Second, Rodgers must be able to protect himself from hits, a factor dependent on his mobility with his recovering Achilles. The tangible evidence of his ability to safeguard against hits will only be apparent when he returns to the field. If both conditions align, Rodgers, cautious of not rushing his comeback at his age, could potentially lead the Jets against the Commanders. Another injury at this stage of his career could spell the end of his playing days.
