NFL Rumors: New York Jets Quarterback Aaron Rodgers Expected to Be Medically Cleared This Week
After recently being cleared to practice, New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers is likely to be medically cleared to play this week upcoming, league sources told ESPN.https://t.co/3xeoLRJSbB
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 17, 2023
Rodgers tore his Achilles on the opening drive of the Jets' shocking Week 1 22-16 win over the Buffalo Bills, failing to complete a pass and absorbing a sack before his exit. The Jets have stumbled to a 5-8 record in his absence, ranking 32nd in yards gained, 29th in points scored, and 30th in giveaways through 14 weeks.
Rodgers turned heads in November by sharing he expected to play again this season. Typically, Achilles tears are season-ending and sport 6-12 month recovery timelines. A 39-year-old quarterback returning to action in a little over three months would be unprecedented. Rodgers was cleared for practice earlier this week; being cleared to play this week would be a shocking achievement.
Ultimately, Rodgers remains very unlikely to see the field in a game. The Jets' eight losses have them tied for the third-worst record in the AFC; though not technically eliminated from the playoffs quite yet, a defeat to the Miami Dolphins this week would just about seal the deal. The Jets are very unlikely to put Rodgers in danger if they have no feasible path to the postseason.
It's for the best. Even if he's technically well enough to play, Rodgers wouldn't be likely to vastly elevate one of the league's truly awful offenses. The Jets have allowed a sack on 10.9% of their dropbacks, the second-worst mark in the league; it's bad business and team-building to risk Rodgers taking a beating in meaningless games. The Jets and Rodgers would both be better off prioritizing a healthy and productive 2024 season.
Photo Credit: © Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
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