Aaron Rodgers Gives Hint on Jets Return: ‘It’ll be a Few Fortnights’

For the first time since his Achilles tendon injury, New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers has given a rough estimate for when he might make a comeback. During an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show on Tuesday, Rodgers suggested that he could be back on the field in about six weeks, saying, “It’ll be a few fortnights.”

Rodgers, who is now eight weeks post-surgery, raised questions about his return after the Jets’ 27-6 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers on Monday night. He told Chargers safety Derwin James that he planned to return in “a few weeks” during postgame handshakes, a moment caught on camera and shared widely on social media.

The next day, Rodgers downplayed his comment, explaining that he was joking with James, with whom he shares an agency. He clarified, “Obviously, that was said with a little tongue-in-cheek there. It’d be nice to be back in a couple of weeks, but that’s probably not a realistic timeline.”

When pressed further, Rodgers mentioned the term “fortnights,” which means two weeks. If he were to return in six weeks, it would bring him back around Christmas week, when the Jets are set to face the Washington Commanders on December 24.

Returning from an Achilles injury in six weeks would be highly unusual for an NFL player. Rodgers, who is 39 years old, has repeatedly expressed his desire to play again this season. He showcased his progress before the game by throwing long passes and doing crossover steps.

Coach Saleh’s Perspective on Rodgers’ Return

Coach Robert Saleh did not disclose any specific timeline that Rodgers might have shared with him but acknowledged the quarterback’s dedication to returning.

However, he must await clearance from medical professionals, and the Jets must assess the risks and rewards of his return; the decision is not solely within Rodgers’ control.

Milestones and Practice Field Progress

Rodgers hinted at the possibility of returning to practice but emphasized the need to meet certain milestones and get on the practice field before he can consider returning to games.

He also pointed out the importance of avoiding any setbacks in his recovery during the critical eight- to 12-week healing stage for his tendon. While he has been walking without crutches for about a month, jogging remains off the table.

Rodgers’ Criteria for His Return

Rodgers suggested that the Jets need to be in playoff contention for him to consider returning this season, emphasizing the importance of his health and mobility on the field. The Jets’ offense has struggled without him, scoring only eight touchdowns, and backup quarterback Zach Wilson had a challenging recent performance.

Rodgers concluded, “But more than that, I’ve got to be able to be healthy, to be able to move, to be able to protect myself, to be able to have strength in all the throws.”

This report used information from ESPN.