If the Jets are eliminated from the playoff picture, sources state it’s unlikely that Rodgers will play. With New York’s current 4-7 record, their playoff hopes are hanging by a thread, and a loss today would make their climb even tougher. Although Rodgers has hinted at a potential return date of Dec. 24 against the Washington Commanders, if the Jets are out of the playoff race by then, a return should not be expected.
Rodgers himself has implied that playing before he’s fully healthy would be too risky. He mentioned to reporters, “If we are out of it, I would be surprised if they OK’d that to come back.” Indeed.
Sources have revealed that there is a chance Rodgers could be activated this season, allowing him to be back on the 53-man roster, but he still wouldn’t play if the team is no longer in playoff contention. He might be designated as the third QB and only used in emergencies to stay involved and connected, as none have been used in this season so far.
It was considered a significant achievement when Rodgers returned to the practice field just 77 days after surgery. He expressed, “From September 12, my goal was to come back to the practice field and try and play.” He succeeded.
While Rodgers continues his rehab on the field, sources note that he is now cleared for certain football activities. It makes sense for him to throw to players instead of trainers, even though none of his throws came in actual team reps.
Sources reveal that having Rodgers in a practice setting does not pose any additional harm, and there is no point in slowing him down. The most significant risk would be his surgically repaired Achilles reacting to unanticipated movement or trauma, which won’t occur until all parties sign off down the road.
If the Jets manage to stay alive in late December and there is a decision to be made about Rodgers’ return, much of it will be based on how he can protect himself from unexpected harm. Until then, 11 weeks out, the outlook is positive.
Observers in conversations with those who study athlete recoveries find Rodgers’ progress unprecedented. To be this mobile less than three months after surgery is extraordinary, and those with the Jets have noticed the positive impact on the team.
Close sources reveal that Rodgers feels a responsibility and obligation to return to the team after being a part of shaping it in the offseason, and those with the Jets see it as a display of true leadership.
For these reasons, no one wants to stop or slow Rodgers down, as long as he’s not at further risk.
