Although Aaron Rodgers did not play during New York’s win over the Philadelphia Eagles, the four-time NFL MVP played a big role for the Jets. Head coach Robert Saleh was thrilled to have him back on the sideline and was grateful to have his wisdom.
Rodgers tore his Achilles tendon during the fourth snap of the first game of his first season at MetLife Stadium, which has notoriously dangerous turf and left Garrett Wilson enraged. While an injury of such significance would typically end an athlete’s season, the 39-year-old quarterback has some hope for a return this season.
Based on the way that he arrived to the game on Sunday, Rodgers is way ahead of schedule with his rehab. And then he was spotted playing catch on the field during pregame warmups, which is practically unthinkable.
There is still a long way to go in Rodgers’ recovery. However, for him to be on the sideline at all was a big step in the right direction. Robert Saleh called him a “freakazoid.”
And he was not just a spectator! Rodgers was wearing a headset during the game as an active voice who gave suggestions to the coaching staff.
Only offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett could speak directly to Zach Wilson. Rodgers was not in the huddle. He did not have access to the quarterback.
That doesn’t mean that Wilson didn’t appreciate having him in the mix.
The same can be said for the Jets’ head coach.
I can tell you this much: It doesn’t hurt.
— Robert Saleh
New York’s offense still had its struggles. The Jets converted only two of 11 attempts on third down. They had just 244 total yards, to the Eagles’ 348. And yet — they still won!
Other than the defense, perhaps Rodgers’ influence was the deciding factor. At this point, maybe it would just be best for New York to move Rodgers into Hackett’s place?