New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers addressed his critics once again on Tuesday, revealing that it was the team’s decision to activate him from injured reserve, despite having already been ruled out for the season.
During an appearance on ESPN’s “The Pat McAfee Show,” Rodgers explained, “I assumed I was going to go on IR. I asked to be put on IR, but then there was a conversation, ‘Do you want to practice?’ I said not at the expense of somebody getting cut. I know how this works. I didn’t feel like I needed to practice to continue my rehab. I could do on-the-field stuff on the side, but, obviously, I got overruled there.”
Having declared the end of his comeback attempt from a torn Achilles tendon on December 19, just a day before his 21-day activation window closed, the Jets chose to activate him to allow him to practice with the team in the remaining stretch of the season. Fullback Nick Bawden was initially cut to make room for Rodgers, but he was later re-signed to the practice squad.
Rodgers reached out to Bawden immediately to clarify that the decision was not his idea. Jets head coach Robert Saleh confirmed that they wanted Rodgers active to contribute on the field during practice.
RELATED: Aaron Rodgers Unhappy The Lions Won The NFC North
While Rodgers acknowledged concerns about taking up a roster spot, he directed specific comments at those labeling him selfish for occupying a spot without playing. He suggested that these critiques were driven by disagreements over his stance on the COVID-19 vaccine.
“It’s the same tired narrative… I love to practice. Didn’t want it to be at the expense of a teammate, but again that’s out of my control,” Rodgers stated. He urged for a more informed perspective, emphasizing the need to ask the right questions before forming opinions about his actions.
Rodgers, known for being a lightning rod for controversy, continues to attract attention even when he’s not actively playing.
