Jets: Aaron Rodgers Clarifies Mid-December Target, Fires Back at Conspiracy Theories

New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers has set a specific timeline for his return from a torn Achilles tendon, aiming for mid-December, as reported by NBC's Melissa Stark during the Sunday night game against the Las Vegas Raiders, according to AP.

Rodgers, who initially hinted at a potential comeback before the season's end, disclosed his targeted return date during Stark's telecast.

He sustained the injury in the season opener against the Buffalo Bills, initially considered season-ending.

According to Stark, Rodgers expressed optimism about the recovery, emphasizing the importance of well-executed surgery and diligent rehabilitation.

However, despite being present on the sideline, Rodgers mentioned to Stark that he did not feel comfortable throwing passes during pregame warmups, a routine he had followed in previous weeks.

The quarterback shared insights into his rehabilitation efforts, revealing his use of a weight-limiting treadmill, currently jogging at 50% of his body weight, with plans to increase to 75% in the coming week.

Coach Robert Saleh, when questioned about Rodgers' potential return, stated, "If the doctors clear him, we'll clear him."

Aaron Rodgers Clarifies Statements on 'McAfee Show'

In a recent appearance on the McAfee show's "Aaron Rodgers Tuesday," the quarterback addressed discrepancies in his earlier statements to NBC's Melissa Stark, providing clarification on his injury recovery and plans for a return.

Rodgers clarified that his reported goal of returning to play in mid-December, as conveyed by Stark, was not precisely accurate, the New York Jets' website noted.

He attributed the misunderstanding to various factors, including questions about his decision not to engage in pregame throwing, a routine he had been observed doing before previous Jets games.

"There's been a lot of questions," Aaron Rodgers explained.

Rodgers revealed that had he not seen former teammate Davante Adams the night before, he might have considered throwing a few passes on the field. He also emphasized that Sunday was his designated day off from rehabilitation, a departure from his usual rest day on Sundays.

The previous week, Rodgers had flown on his off day, but this particular week involved an extended rehab session on Saturday. "There has been no setback," Rodgers stated, responding to inquiries about a potential physical setback.

He clarified that he never provided Stark with definitive statements and detailed a conversation she had with his doctor, Neal ElAttrache.

According to Rodgers, ElAttrache discussed the possibility of a three-month comeback, emphasizing the critical elements of surgery, patient resilience, and a determination to return to the field.

Rodgers reiterated that nothing had changed in his recovery approach, expressing his desire to return contingent upon the team's playoff contention.

Bill Simmons Voices Disapproval of Aaron Rodgers Comeback Narrative

Meanwhile, podcast host Bill Simmons expressed frustration with the ongoing coverage of the Jets' star QB's comeback aspirations, dismissing it as an unnecessary news story, per the NY Post.

During his Ringer podcast, Simmons conveyed exasperation with the continuous focus on Aaron Rodgers' potential return from an injury that traditionally ends a season.

He questioned the need for extensive reporting and highlighted what he perceived as intentional leaks to generate headlines.

Despite Rodgers' steadfast belief in a comeback, Simmons remained skeptical, urging a halt to the ongoing narrative.

Since suffering a left Achilles injury early in his debut with the Jets, Aaron Rodgers has consistently expressed confidence in his ability to return during the 2023 NFL season, despite skepticism from some quarters, including Simmons.

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Written by: Bert Hoover

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