Robert Saleh: Aaron Rodgers 'looks normal'
New York Jets (5-8) quarterback Aaron Rodgers ramped up his workload at practice this week as he attempts to make one final push at a comeback from the torn Achilles he suffered in Week 1.
The 40-year-old participated on Thursday and Friday, and according to head coach Robert Saleh, he looked “normal.”
“He pushed it a little bit yesterday,” Saleh said, via the team’s website. “He went under center, was running boots and was jogging from drill to drill… Looks normal to me. It’s unbelievable. Credit to him, especially in this day and age where a hangnail can affect a game week. This dude is grinding to try to get himself back. It just shows how much he cares. I have an appreciation for him.”
Rodgers’ 21-day practice window closes this Wednesday, meaning New York has until then to activate him to the active roster or leave him on injured reserve for the remainder of the season. Adam Schefter of ESPN said the Jets are likely to medically clear Rodgers this week. However, Schefter cautioned that it doesn’t mean that he will be back in the lineup in time to play the Washington Commanders (4-9) on Christmas Eve.
Window closing for Aaron Rodgers to complete comeback
With the Jets currently on the outside of the playoff picture, it’s fair to question if a return this season is worth the risk. Heading into Sunday’s Week 15 road matchup against the Miami Dolphins (9-4), the Jets have just a 0.2% chance at making the playoffs.
Rodgers himself admitted earlier this month that a return after just four months would mean he isn’t 100% healthy.
“A comeback this year before the four-month mark would mean I’m not 100% healthy. So it would be a risk for myself and team to sign off on. If we are out of it, I would be surprised if they OK’d that to come back,” Rodgers said.
He added that it wouldn’t make sense to return if the Jets are mathematically eliminated from playoff contention.
“It’s definitely impressive seeing him out there and the progress he’s made in such a short time,” Jets receiver Garrett Wilson said. “I mean, he’s special. The mindset, the way he goes about his treatment. All of a sudden, you find yourself back, ready to play here pretty soon. It’s crazy.”