Aaron Rodgers Elsa/Getty Images
Aaron Rodgers is quickly healing from his Achilles tear that occurred during his initial game with the New York Jets. Fans may have the opportunity to witness his return to the field in the near future. After their teams encountered each other on Monday, November 6, Rodgers, aged 39, conversed with Derwin James, the Los Angeles Chargers safety, on the sidelines. In a video posted on ESPN's official social media account, the 27-year-old James inquired about the injured Jets quarterback's anticipated comeback.
After exchanging friendly pats on the back with James, Rodgers jokingly mentioned, "Just give me a few weeks."
Having dedicated 18 seasons to the Green Bay Packers, Rodgers was unexpectedly transferred to the Jets in April. However, his time on the field at MetLife Stadium on September 11 was short-lived as he only managed to complete four plays before suffering an ankle injury. Subsequent MRI results confirmed that Rodgers had indeed torn his Achilles tendon.
"Thank you to everyone who has reached out to me, whether by phone, text, direct message, or through a mutual connection. Your support has meant a great deal to me, and I will do my best to respond to each of you soon. 💙"
Sharing his thoughts on Instagram on September 13, Rodgers broke his silence regarding what seemed to be a season-ending injury. "I am devastated and going through a range of emotions, but I am deeply touched and humbled by the outpouring of love and support. Thank you all."
Following his team's 22-16 victory over the Buffalo Bills, Rodgers asked for thoughts and prayers as he began the healing process. "Today marks the start of my journey towards recovery. 🙏 The night is always darkest before the dawn, and I will rise again. I am proud of my teammates, and we are off to a great start at 1-0. 💪"
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In a surprising turn of events, Rodgers elected to have surgery on his ankle. This caused quite a stir among fans when, on October 15, he was seen walking without crutches and even throwing passes alongside his teammates.
"He is determined to accomplish his mission, and I have full faith in him," stated Jets coach Robert Saleh during an interview with NBC Sports last month. "I have heard that he is making tremendous progress in his rehabilitation and has a strong desire to make a comeback this year."
During his recovery process, Rodgers had previously expressed his readiness to return to the football field, regardless of the specific timing. In an interview on The Pat McAfee Show in September, he asserted, "I do not want to be constrained by a specific timeline, I simply want to focus on regaining my health." He further emphasized, "Nevertheless, I am fully committed to doing everything within my power, in terms of rehabilitation, to position myself for a future return to football. That is my ultimate objective."
Rodgers, during his tenure with the Packers, clinched a Super Bowl triumph in 2011 and was lauded as the MVP for his exemplary performance in that particular championship. Additionally, he earned the coveted NFL MVP title in 2011, 2014, 2020, and 2021 prior to making a transition to the Jets.