When the New York Jets acquired Aaron Rodgers in a blockbuster trade with the Green Bay Packers last year, everything was supposed to change.
The Jets finally had a legitimate quarterback, and for the first time in what seemed like eons, they appeared to be on the cusp of contending for a Super Bowl. At least on paper.
Unfortunately, Rodgers ended up tearing his Achilles on the first offensive series of the regular season, ending New York’s championship aspirations.
Now, Rodgers is on the mend and appears good to go for Week 1 of 2024, and Jets head coach Robert Saleh provided a major update on his signal-caller ahead of organized team activities.
“I know he’s had a couple prior engagements that he’s taking care of, but he’s here, he’s working,” Saleh said, via Nick Shook of NFL.com. “I mean, the guy can still sling it. Obviously, he’s still working through his rehab, but no issues on the trajectory on which he’s going.”
The fact that Rodgers seems healthy is not surprising given the fact that the 40-year-old initially planned on returning from his injury last December, but opted to remain seated when it was clear that Gang Green was out of playoff contention.
Saleh says that Rodgers should be able participate in organized team activities with no restrictions later this month.
“Well, it’s naturally managed because of the Phase 1, Phase 2 part of it, but once Phase 3 hits, we’re not anticipating any restrictions with what we can and can’t do with him,” Saleh said.
The Jets loaded up on more talent to support Rodgers this offseason, signing wide receiver Mike Williams, selecting offensive tackle Olumuyiwa Fashanu with the 11th overall pick of the NFL Draft and then taking wide out Malachi Corley in the fourth round. They also signed some more offensive linemen in free agency and made some moves defensively, like trading for edge rusher Haason Reddick.
In an AFC East division that appears very winnable, Aaron Rodgers and the Jets could be in for the best season they have had in ages.