Eight months after a season-ending injury, superstar quarterback Aaron Rodgers is preparing to return to full training. Jets head coach, Robert Saleh, has confirmed that Rodgers will be in full swing without restrictions when phase 3 of the team’s offseason program commences on May 20th.
Rodgers’ Recovery Progress
Rodgers suffered an Achilles injury last September during the season opener against the Bills, four plays into his Jets debut. Two days later, he underwent a “speed bridge” surgery, a procedure that incorporates an internal brace across the tear to hasten and safeguard the healing process.
Despite his injury, Rodgers continued his commitment to the team’s training efforts, impressing Saleh. “He’s working. He can still sling it. He is working through his rehab without issues with the current trajectory,” Saleh said.
Jets’ Offseason Program Breakdown
The NFL offseason program is divided into three phases. Phase 1 consists of meetings, strength and conditioning, and rehabilitation, which lasts for the initial two weeks. Phase 2 extends over three weeks, permitting on-field workouts, provided they involve individual or group drills without live contact, and no offense versus defense drills are authorized.
Phase 3, the final one set to commence in late May, represents 10 days of organized team practice activity, also known as OTAs. While live contact remains off-limits, the transition into 7-on-7, 9-on-7, and 11-on-11 drills is enabled. Rodgers’ seamless integration with Phase 3’s protocols indicates his readiness for a full comeback to the Jets’ football field.
Rodgers’ 2023 Season Expectations
After Rodgers’ injury, the Jets had an unremarkable season finishing third in AFC East with a 7-10 record for the second straight year. The team hopes Rodgers’ return will boost their chances of making the playoffs for the first time since 2010.
During Rodgers’ absence, quarterbacks Zach Wilson, Tim Boyle, and Trevor Siemian filled in. The Jets’ total offense and points per game fell to 31st and 29th place, respectively. The Jets hope to see an improved performance from the team following Rodgers’ return.
Boosting the Offense: New Additions to the Team
To augment their offensive capabilities, the Jets have fortified their lineup with several athletic reinforcements. They have recruited Tyron Smith, John Simpson, and Morgan Moses to play at the left tackle, left guard, and right tackle positions, respectively. Additionally, Olu Fashanu has been drafted 11th overall as a left tackle.
In the subsequent rounds of the draft, the Jets picked Western Kentucky wide receiver Malachi Corley and running-backs Braelon Allen and Isaiah Davis from Wisconsin and South Dakota State, respectively.
Rodgers’ Mentorship to Corley
Draft night saw a warm interaction between Rodgers and the newly selected Corley, with Rodgers reaching out to him. Corley, popularly known as the ‘YAC King,’ shared that Rodgers offered him a stay at his guesthouse. This mentor-mentee relationship between the four-time NFL MVP and the rookie is likely to add a fresh dynamic to the Jets’ unit.
Saleh expressed his enthusiasm about the new group stating, “It’s an exciting group to work with. We still have to do the work because there’s a lot to be done.”
As the playoffs approach, the Jets fanbase eagerly awaits Aaron Rodgers’ return. The forthcoming training sessions will surely be a testing ground for the team’s enhanced capabilities and the promise of a fresh dynamism in the new season.