Aaron Rodgers’ much-anticipated New York Jets return may be close to happening
The New York Jets could have their quarterback return to action next week.
According to a report from ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Aaron Rodgers is set to be cleared for game action ahead of the team’s Christmas Eve matchup against the Washington Commanders.
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
Approaching the end of his 21-day activation window, Rodgers would revert to season-ending injured reserve if not activated. If officially cleared to play, Rodgers could avoid that and potentially find his way back onto the field.
An Achilles tear has usually been a death knell for a player’s season, and sometimes their career. If Rodgers does grace the field again, it would arguably be one of the greatest injury recoveries in recent NFL history. The Comeback Player of the Year honor would likely be in play.
Even if Rodgers is cleared, he is unlikely to be activated if the Jets are eliminated from playoff contention. If the Jets lose their Week 15 matchup with Miami, a Browns, Texans, or Bills victory would eliminate New York from the postseason. Therefore, a victory over Miami is a necessary prerequisite for Rodgers’ return.
Still, there is ample opportunity for the Jets to pull off the upset. Miami faces many injuries teamwide, and weather conditions will be less than ideal, which often favors defenses.
If the Jets’ offense can score more than 14 points and the defense continues its level of play, they may survive the week. As always, it comes down to consistency.
A win likely means the return of Rodgers this season. A loss likely ends any chance of the quarterback’s return and New York’s playoff chances. Once again, the ball is in the Jets’ court, and their next game could decide how the rest of their season plays out.
