New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers has returned to practice and boosted morale in the Jets locker room. The Jets have been down on their luck after their talismanic quarterback was sidelined with a torn Achilles early this season. The sight of him returning to the field must have brought some positivity to a team that was hoping for a much better season after recruiting the former NFL MVP.
However, Rodgers’ teammates will have to wait a little longer for the quarterback’s return to action. The 40-year-old didn’t play against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday, and if the Jets don’t activate him until December 20, he won’t play again this season.
If the Jets Don’t Make the Playoffs, Rodgers Won’t Return
According to various sources, it looks less and less likely that Rodgers will return this year or play at all this season. That’s because the Jets might be out of contention for a playoff spot by the time Rodgers returns, and if that happens, he surely won’t be risked in meaningless matches.
Rodgers targeted the match against the Washington Commanders on December 24 as a return date if all goes well. However, if the Jets have zero chances of reaching the playoffs by then, Rodgers will likely return next season.
Rodgers confirmed that himself, saying he won’t be risked if he is not at 100%. The quarterback told reporters he thought it was impossible his team would green-light a return if the team was out of the playoffs.
Returning Early Is a Remarkable Achievement for Rodgers
Nevertheless, the fact that Rodgers was at least able to make a return to practice only 77 days after undergoing surgeryon such a serious injury was a huge success. He would now continue to rehabilitate on the field and during practice, which would be beneficial for him, as he would be working with his teammates and not trainers.
Those who work with athletes who are recovering from these types of injuries said that any return earlier than 3 months was wild and showed just how much effort Rodgers put in to be back with the team as early as possible and demonstrate some of that leadership he was brought in to New York for.
