Aaron Rodgers gives insight into advice he gave Jets QB Zach Wilson
Zach Wilson is only in his third NFL season, but already, people are noticing a difference this year compared to his first two. With Aaron Rodgers sidelined because of an Achilles injury, the former BYU standout has stepped into the starting role for the New York Jets, once again.
Joining the Pat McAfee Show on Tuesday, Rodgers was asked about the progress made by his teammate. Some think the four-time league MVP has a lot to do with Wilson’s success. However, Rodgers maintains that he does not deserve a lot of credit.
“I really don’t deserve a ton of credit for his progression,” Rodgers said. “It’s been his own work ethic, his own desire to improve in all areas of his life. I think it doesn’t hurt to have an example of an older guy who’s had some success and seeing how I go about my business. I’m sure there’s been some stuff that’s rubbed off on him.
“But, he deserves a lot of credit. He deserves a lot of credit for the way he’s handled himself, his maturity, for his focus on the fundamentals and getting better. I’m very, very proud of Zach. Proud of the progression I’ve seen on and off the field.”
Through six games, the Jets own a 3-3 record. That’s quite an accomplishment with Rodgers suffering an injury just a few plays into the season. It includes a thrilling 20-14 win over the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday.
Wilson completed 19-of-33 passes for 186 yards in the game. He also picked up 15 yards on the ground.
In his first six games, Wilson has thrown for 1,097 yards with four touchdowns and five interceptions. He maintains a 57.6% completion rate. Those numbers aren’t great, but it has the Jets sitting at .500.
Aaron Rodgers talks about return to field
Rodgers was back on the field throwing prior to Sunday’s Jets-Eagles game. The quarterback explained what it was like to be back tossing the football around.
“We’re about five weeks tomorrow since surgery,” Rodgers said. “Five weeks yesterday was the injury. The first goal was to be able to get back on the field for the October 1 game. I was hoping without crutches. I just wasn’t actually anywhere close to being able to get off of them. Then the next goal was to be able to throw on the field the 15th. It’s really just for me to be able to feel more normal.
“Just to be back around the guys was incredible. To be on the field without crutches, to be able to be on the sidelines, to be on the headset, it made me feel like I wasn’t so separated from the team. Really thankful for that. Obviously just about anything I do or say there’s some sort of reaction. That’s kind of where I’m at right now, and I appreciate it. But that was a special moment for me to be able to feel a little bit more normal.”