Aaron Rodgers tore his Achilles tendon during the first drive of his first regular season game with the New York Jets on September 11, 2023. According to Jay Glazer, he plans to return to the field very soon.
Rodgers reportedly informed the organization of his intent to start practice on December 2. That does not indicate a return to contact. Nor does it indicate a return to the field on Sundays.
Even still, if Rodgers returns to the Jets on his target date, his recovery timeline would be superhuman. The team was “mind-blown” by a video of their four-time NFL MVP quarterback working out this week.
December 2 would mark 82 days between Rodgers’ injury and his return. It would mark 80 days between his “speed bridge” procedure, which took place on September 13.
Rodgers has said repeatedly that he will only comeback if his team is still in playoff contention. As of right now, it would take a significant winning streak to get New York back near the top of the AFC.
With that being said, the Jets are still in the hunt. Aaron Rodgers getting back on the field would be a massive boost to an offense that has been extremely sporadic and oftentimes awful with Zach Wilson.
However, there is still a long way to go!
Rodgers needs to hit his benchmarks if he is going to start practicing in less than 14 days. That is step one.
Should that go according to plan, practice is very different than a live game. Rodgers would have to start slow and build up to a return to the lineup. He has to be able to move around in the pocket. He has to be able to protect himself, and his Achilles. Then, and only then, could he consider playing in a game.
Ian Rapoport reported on Sunday morning that Week 16 is circled on the calendar. We’ll see.
To even think about this timeline becoming reality is insane. Most normal people who rupture the Achilles can return to physical activity like running and jumping after no less than four to six months.
It is oftentimes closer to eight months or more.
Rodgers is apparently on pace to begin normal physical activity in less than three. That would be insane.