Aaron Rodgers Fully Participates in Jets’ OTAs, ‘No Limitations’ Post-Achilles Injury

Aaron Rodgers is making a comeback as he practices with the New York Jets during organized team activities (OTAs) in Florham Park, New Jersey. After tearing his left Achilles tendon in the season opener against Buffalo on September 11, the 40-year-old quarterback has focused on rehabilitation and appears ready to lead the Jets this season.

Rodgers’ injury occurred on the fourth snap of his debut with the Jets, halting the team’s hopes for a playoff run. Despite pushing his rehab to return at the end of last season, Rodgers ultimately decided against it when the Jets fell out of playoff contention, and he wasn’t fully healed. Instead, he put his focus on being completely ready for the upcoming season.

Jets head coach Robert Saleh confirmed that Rodgers participates in all OTAs activities. “He’s doing everything,” Saleh told ESPN. Rodgers showcased his abilities during noncontact team drills, including a highlight-reel throw down the middle of the field to Xavier Gipson and multiple connections with leading receiver Garrett Wilson. “He has no restrictions, and he looks good,” Saleh said. “The arm talent is obviously still there. It’s really just reacclimating to everything.”

Last year, the team was considered a playoff contender, and with Rodgers under center, there’s again talk of a potential Super Bowl appearance. The Jets, who hold the NFL’s longest active playoff drought at 13 seasons, are being taken seriously by league officials. The NFL’s schedule-makers have shown their confidence in the Jets, scheduling them for six prime-time games in the first 11 weeks.

NFL’s vice president for broadcast planning, Mike North, highlighted the league’s expectations, saying, “I feel like the Jets kind of owe us one” after Rodgers’ injury derailed last season’s prime-time games. Saleh, however, is tempering expectations, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the process, saying, “It’s New York; there’s always going to be excitement.”