Aaron Rodgers gives definitive answer on NFL future in emotional post
New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers spoke out for the first time Wednesday after suffering a torn Achilles in the 22-16 Week 1 victory over the Buffalo Bills Monday.
In an Instagram post, Rodgers appeared to erase all speculation that the injury could be a career-ending one, saying he “shall rise yet again.”
“Thank you to every person that has reached out, called, texted, DM’d, connected through a friend, etc. It has meant a ton to me, and I’ll try and get back to all of you soon,” Rodgers wrote. “I’m completely heartbroken and moving through all of the emotions, but deeply touched and humbled by the support and love. Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers as I begin the healing process today.
“The night is darkest before the dawn. And I shall rise yet again. Proud of my guys, 1-0.”
After months of anticipation following New York’s acquisition of the four-time NFL MVP from the Green Bay Packers, Rodgers’ 2023 season ended four plays into the first offensive drive of the season. At 39 years old and holding the honor as the oldest player in the NFL, many have questioned whether the Achilles injury could mark the end of his Hall of Fame career.
Head coach Robert Saleh certainly doesn’t see it that way, saying he’d be “shocked” if Rodgers never played another down of football again.
“I haven’t gone down that road with him,” Saleh said Wednesday. “I’d be shocked if this is the way he’s going to go out. But at the same time, for him, he’s working through a lot of things he needs to deal with. That will be the last thing I talk to him about.”
Jets leaning on Zach Wilson with Aaron Rodgers sidelined
With Rodgers sidelined, New York will turn to Zach Wilson, its 2021 second overall pick. Wilson has started 22 games over the past two seasons, throwing for 4,022 yards, 15 touchdowns and 18 interceptions. The Jets benched Wilson this past season after poor play, prompting them to acquire Rodgers from the Packers.
He completed 14-of-21 passes for 140 yards with one touchdown and one interception in the victory over Buffalo. Saleh made it clear Tuesday that Wilson will start in Week 2 against the Dallas Cowboys this Sunday.
“I want to make it very clear, Zach’s our quarterback,” Saleh said. “We have a lot of faith in Zach. We’re rolling with Zach and excited for him.”
Saleh did say the team plans to add a veteran quarterback to the roster. But that’s to provide more depth at the position and not challenge Wilson for the starting job.
“This is Zach’s team and we’re rolling with Zach,” Saleh said.