Aaron Rodgers Set to Return Next Season, Says 2024 Won't Be His Last

During his weekly appearance on "The Pat McAfee Show," New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers all but ruled himself out for the remainder of the 2023 NFL season, Yahoo! Sports noted.

The seasoned quarterback, out since Week 1 with a torn Achilles, acknowledged that he is not yet 100% medically cleared to play, and the recovery process would take "three-to-four weeks."

Despite the New York Jets being officially eliminated from playoff contention after a recent loss to the Miami Dolphins, Rodgers had initially kept hopes alive for a potential return this season.

However, the quarterback's recent statements reflect a change in optimism, indicating that a comeback this season is improbable.

During Aaron Rodgers' recovery, which Jets head coach Robert Saleh praised as "unbelievable," the team initiated his practice window 77 days after his surgery.

It was crucial for Rodgers to be fully prepared and activated by December 20; otherwise, he would have had to stay on injured reserve for the remainder of the season.

On Tuesday, Rodgers and the Jets were scheduled to confer with his surgeon, Neal ElAttrache, for an update.

The tone of the conversation appeared less optimistic, prompting a downplaying of any potential return for the remainder of the season.

The details of the discussion with Dr. ElAttrache likely influenced the decision regarding Rodgers' availability.

Jets Officials Hesitant on Aaron Rodgers' Return

High-ranking officials within the Jets organization are reportedly reluctant to see Aaron Rodgers take the field in any remaining games of the 2023 season, even if he is medically cleared to do so, according to CBS Sports.

The Jets were eliminated from playoff contention following their loss to the Dolphins, and the team management has expressed reservations about Rodgers playing in inconsequential games.

Rodgers, who had eyed a potential return on Christmas Eve, remains cognizant of the team's playoff hopes influencing his availability.

While the Jets could activate Rodgers from injured reserve, there are no concrete plans to play him.

This move would acknowledge Rodgers' impressive rehabilitation efforts and could serve as insurance for the team's final three weeks.

Aaron Rodgers Views 2023 as a "Lost Year"

Aaron Rodgers, a four-time NFL MVP, referred to the 2023 season as a "lost year," having played only three official snaps, per NFL's website.

Despite this setback, Rodgers does not anticipate next season being his last in New York.

Expressing a renewed passion and love for the game since joining the Jets, Rodgers aims to play multiple years with the team.

Addressing concerns about the team's performance without him, Rodgers voiced confidence in Jets' General Manager Joe Douglas and Head Coach Robert Saleh.

Despite a challenging season with injuries, Rodgers emphasized the need for patience and trust in the existing leadership rather than calling for a complete overhaul.

While acknowledging the difficulty of the situation, Rodgers expressed a desire to be a starter at 40 and beyond, highlighting his commitment to maintaining peak performance and contributing effectively to the team's success.

As the Jets grapple with challenges, including criticism of their management, Rodgers advocates for a reload rather than a full rebuild, emphasizing the importance of continuity and patience.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: Aaron Rodgers Says He Won't Be 100% To Play This Season, Wants To Play "At Least 2 Years" Still - From The Pat McAfee Show