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The New York Jets are flying high after Saturday’s loss over the Philadelphia Eagles, but even more good players could come if star quarterback Aaro Rodgers copies their progression in his recovery from an Achilles injury.
Jets head coach Robert Saleh told Pro Football Talk’s Peter Kig that he believes Rodgers is on track to meet his goal of returning at some point this season.
“He is on a mission. I don’t rule out anything about him. “I hear he is absolutely mastering the rehab and really hopes to be back this year,” Saleh said. “That’s why getting wis like this and staying in it and staying in the cabin, giving you that opportunity to accomplish your mission, is so vital.”
Rodgers was present at the momentous ceremony in New York on Sunday. Before the game, he was looking to move around without crutches and throw a soccer ball while putting weight on his surgically repaired left leg, an incredible feat considering his procedure was less than five weeks ago:
Saleh noted that Rodgers had the option of watching Saturday’s game from a box, but decided to watch it from the sidelines. Despite the danger of getting caught at any point during the game and further damaging his leg, Rodgers eased all of his trainer’s blows.
“Aaro was at our facility on Saturday,” Saleh said. “I was talking to him. I was like, ‘So what’s the deal? Will you go to the box tomorrow? See from the box? He says: ‘No, I want to be off the field’. I was like, ‘What’s wrong with your ankle?’ He says, “I’m fine.” I was like, ‘K, whatever you want, man.’”
The Jets finish their bye in Week 7 with a 3-3 record, which is an ideal result after Rodgers was injured on plays during the season. New York lost three straight before playing back-to-back games the past two weeks to build some momentum as the team’s schedule gets a little easier.
If the Jets can rack up wins, they will be targeted for a playoff spot in the AFC, which would set the stage for a potentially miraculous return from Rodgers at the end of the season.
