Aaron Rodgers Describes Jets’ Training Camp As ‘The Most Demanding’ Of His Career

As the New York Jets approach the end of their training camp, quarterback Aaron Rodgers has described this year’s camp as one of the most grueling he has experienced in recent seasons.

Rodgers, who joined the Jets this offseason, remarked that this camp has been notably more challenging than the past seven or eight years. “I would say the camp is much harder this year and maybe the hardest in the last seven or eight of my career,” Rodgers told ESPN.

Head coach Robert Saleh is facing a critical season. The Jets’ longest playoff drought is 13 years. According to Rodgers, the team has executed 300 more practice reps than at this stage last year.

Saleh is under significant pressure to turn around the team’s fortunes. “There’s a ‘now or never’ feel around the franchise,” Rodgers said.

Saleh has indicated that Rodgers is ready for the regular season and likely will not participate in the final preseason game. “His arm is 30,” Saleh said. “He’s still got plenty of mobility. I think he’s absolutely ready.”

Rodgers, who has not played in the first two preseason games and may sit out the third, expressed satisfaction with his preparation. “I feel good about where I am with my body and what I’ve put together,” he said, acknowledging the physical toll of the camp while emphasizing his readiness.

Rodgers has described the camp’s demanding nature as a way to build “calluses” that can better prepare players for the season.

Offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett praised Rodgers for his conditioning and perseverance throughout his recovery. “I give so much credit to Aaron, the things that he has put himself through to be able to get back to where he is at right now,” Hackett said.

As the Jets prepare to close out the preseason against the New York Giants, Rodgers remains focused on the season opener against the San Francisco 49ers.