Storybook comeback with the New York Jets against Miami Dolphins falls flat
By Jordan Sigler
Aaron Rodgers’ chances of returning to the New York Jets this season to lead them on a playoff run are, in fact, over following the team’s loss to the Miami Dolphins on Sunday.
Rodgers has been rehabbing for the possibility he could heal from the Achilles injury he suffered in Week 1 in time to keep the Jets’ hopes afloat. The idea was always improbable.
Oct 1, 2023; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets injured quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) pre game at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
However, Rodgers fought his way back to the practice field in recent weeks. The team will face a Week 16 deadline to activate Rodgers off injured reserve. Rodgers said earlier this season his return would depend on the Jets playoff hopes.
Aaron Rodgers and the Jets have been eliminated
Dec 10, 2023; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) on the field after the game against the Houston Texans at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
Following the Jets’ 30-0 loss to the Dolphins, the Jets have been officially eliminated from the playoffs.
Rodgers’ body language during the Jets loss indicated he might not want to return this season.
For good reason: the Jets offensive line sent backup quarterback Zach Wilson into the locker room with a head injury. Why should Rodgers take the risk of adding injuries to his body in a year the Jets can’t win anything?
Rodgers and the Jets set Christmas Eve against the Washington Commanders as the date for his possible return this season. That could still happen, but it’s thought to be even more unlikely now than it was following Week 1.
Because the storybook ending of Rodgers returning for the playoffs ended in Week 15.
