Aaron Rodgers shares he knew he tore Achilles before MRI
Aaron Rodgers didn’t need to undergo an MRI to determine the severity of the injury he suffered in the 22-16 Week 1 win over the Buffalo Bills Monday.
Rodgers knew he had torn his Achilles, which an MRI did indeed confirm. The 39-year-old underwent surgery Wednesday, officially bringing an end to his first season with the New York Jets after just four plays.
“Before even an MRI, I knew what happened,” Rodgers said on “The Pat McAfee Show” Friday. “I knew I had torn my Achilles. I had popped my calf a few times, especially the soleus, and this was not that sensation. So I knew right away this was — I knew this was not a good situation.”
Rodgers now faces a recovery time of 4-6 months, with many speculating that his NFL career could perhaps be in jeopardy. The four-time NFL MVP certainly isn’t closing the book on his career just yet, and expects to do everything he can to play football again.
“I’ve known about this rehab,” Rodgers said. “I’ve had friends who have done it and fellow competitors that I know who have done it, come back from it. I think what I’d like to say is give me the doubts. Give me the doubts. Give me the timetables. Give me all the things that you think can, should or will happen. Because all I need is that one little extra percent of inspiration. That’s all I need. So, give me your doubts, give me your prognostications. And then watch what I do.”
Aaron Rodgers confident in Zach Wilson’s abilities
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’m very confident in him,” Rodgers said. “I hoped he could’ve had a couple years to sit back and learn but I’m excited for him.”