The four-time NFL MVP has been activated from the injured reserve list, a move characterized by Coach Robert Saleh as part of Rodgers' ongoing rehabilitation from a torn left Achilles tendon.
The Jets had a deadline of Wednesday to activate Rodgers, with his 21-day practice window having started on November 29. Failing to activate him by this deadline would have meant him reverting back to IR for the remainder of the season.
Instead, Rodgers will now be able to participate in practice as a part of New York's 53-man roster. Players on IR can remain with the team but are not allowed to practice.
Coach Saleh stated, "We've got the roster flexibility with all the different things that have happened over the course of the last couple of weeks. It's all part of his rehab, and just having him out on the football field is a plus for everybody. It's a plus for him, it's a plus for his teammates, so we're going to keep him on the 53.»
To make room for Rodgers, fullback Nick Bawden has been released from the roster.
Rodgers, who is 40 years old, stated on "The Pat McAfee Show" that he's still not at 100% health and is a few weeks away from being fully ready. He mentioned that had the Jets remained in playoff contention, he would have pushed to play in the recent game against Washington. However, New York's 30-0 loss eliminated them from postseason contention.
Coach Saleh acknowledged Rodgers' efforts, saying, "He tried everything he could to get back. And, you know, who knows if the circumstances were different? Get a couple of these wins, maybe we're having a different conversation. But I know he gave everything he could."
Rodgers has expressed his goal of playing for "at least two years" and doesn't consider this season as his last in the NFL. Coach Saleh shares this sentiment, believing that Rodgers could play for several more years if he can.
Rodgers has undergone surgery for his Achilles injury, which included a "speed bridge" procedure to expedite healing. He has been making impressive progress in his recovery, participating in various drills and practice activities.
As for the current quarterback situation, Zach Wilson is in the concussion protocol, and if he can't play on Sunday, Trevor Siemian is poised to start in his place. Brett Rypien is also on the roster as an option. Rodgers, meanwhile, remains prepared and ready for any opportunity to play, emphasizing his readiness for the game.
POLL | ||
21 DECEMBRE | 24 ANSWERS The Jets have activated Aaron Rodgers from injured reserve (IR), but he won't be playing this season. Is Aaron Rodgers done in the NFL? | ||
yes | 11 | 45.8 % |
no | 13 | 54.2 % |
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