New York Jets Aaron Rodgers Remarkable Return From Achilles Tendon Rupture

(Photo : Elsa/Getty Images) EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - Aaron Rodgers (#8) of the New York Jets warms up before the game against the Buffalo Bills at MetLife Stadium.

Usually the worst outcome of the first four plays in an NFL game results in a punt or turnover, but in this case Aaron Rodgers' first series as the New York Jets quarterback ended in a devastating Achilles tendon injury. The rollercoaster of the 2023 season for the New York Jets has come out of its all season low as the team beasts the Houston Texans to break a five game losing streak. In this victory, the team still holds a mess at offensive-line, inconsistent quarterback play, and a stellar defense that is starting to show cracks.

The New York Jets stand at a 5-8 record with playoff hopes seeming like a near impossible feat. This is not the only seemingly impossible outcome to be stemming from this sports organization. Aaron Rodgers plans to return to the field within the next few weeks as he was activated last Wednesday from Injury Reserve after suffering an Achilles tendon rupture. Wednesday opened his 21 day window for a potential return; but if Rodgers were to return and play, it must be for meaningful games in hopes for a playoff push.

Aaron Rodgers Defies Estimated Recovery Time From an Achilles Tendon Injury

Through all of this, is there still a light at the end of the tunnel? The same tunnel that the 4-time league MVP, Super Bowl Champ, and newly acquired quarterback, Aaron Rodgers ran out holding the American Flag that Monday Night season opener against the Buffalo Bills on September 11th. All the joy faded as Rodgers fell to the turf gripping his heel to be carted off only four plays into his New York Jets quarterback career.

At 40 years of age, Aaron Rodgers defies the projected recovery time of 6-9 months from an Achilles tear to returning to the practice field in only 11 weeks. Rodgers was able to perform this incredible recovery thanks to the innovative Achilles tear surgery, SpeedBridge, done by Dr. Neal ElAttrache. This surgery anchors the tendon to the heel allowing the patient to attack physical therapy in a more aggressive manner, speeding up the estimated recovery time.

Should The New York Jets Risk a Possible Reinjury

Would Aaron Rodgers' return be all for nothing? As mentioned before, the New York Jets are struggling offensively, ranking close to last in all categories. The offensive line has seen over 7 different lineup combinations and there has been inconsistent wide receiver and running back play. Although, these problems could be stemming from the absence of the future Hall Of Fame quarterback. Both Zach Wison and Tim Boyle have struggled behind this line; who says Rodgers won't be subjected to possibly reinjuring his Achilles in an attempt to extend a play?

Aaron Rodgers And The New York Jets Past The 2023 Season

Looking past the 2023 season, will Aaron Rodgers return next year despite attempting to come back in the same season of his Achilles tear? The answer is most likely Yes. Rodgers recruited his band of brothers from his days in Green Bay and the New York Jets bought in. Bringing in the likes of Allen Lazard, Randall Cobb, Billy Turner, Tim Boyle, and offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett. Unfortunately, during the absence of the former Super Bowl MVP quarterback, these players and coaches have performed underwhelming. With the 2023 NFL season more than halfway through, the New York Jets and Aaron Rodgers look to fulfill their hopes of this season in the next.