When the New York Jets decided to activate Aaron Rodgers off the Injured Reserve, it drew some criticisms because it caused someone to lose their job. By the looks of it, however, it was the right decision.
Jets owner Woody Johnson said as much in a recent interview with the New York Post, heaping praise on the legendary quarterback and how he has been working with the team so far. He also hinted how good Rodgers has stayed despite being sidelined since tearing his Achilles in Week 1 of the 2023 season.
“I think if you see Aaron Rodgers right now and the impact he’s having on the team and what he’s able to do with virtually no practice, it’s amazing,” Johnson shared. “He’s in the fourth quarter of the league year and he’s throwing like he’s practiced all year. When he starts practicing and gets the timing with receivers just perfect, I think you’re going to see some amazing things.”
Woody Johnson’s revelation corroborates the recent reporting about Aaron Rodgers and how much he has been helpful to the team ever since he joined the 53-man roster once again.
While the New York Jets QB initially didn’t want to come off the IR knowing that someone would be cut, the team still pushed through it. And sure enough, when he ran the scout team against the starting defense, the game “got spirited” and “competitive.”
The Jets did show the fruits of their labor in Week 16 against the Washington Commanders, surviving and escaping with the 30-28 victory.
Of course it’s not just Rodgers’ credit alone, but it speaks volumes that the team starts winning again after Rodgers joined the active roster.
What’s Next for Aaron Rodgers, New York Jets?
The New York Jets are out of playoff contention, so they have nothing left to play for aside from respectability. But hey, they could really use something build of off heading to the 2024 season.
Perhaps with Aaron Rodgers back in the fold and starting to train with the team again, maybe they can get their preparations started so they won’t need plenty of adjustments come next season.
Rodgers himself did promise that things will be different for the Jets next year, and many are hoping he can walk the talk.
“I’m asking you [Jets fans], stick with us. Believe in us. Start manifesting positive things, not thinking about what could go wrong in 2024. Just trust. … It will be a different conversation [next year],” Rodgers said earlier in the week.