(Florham Park) New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers says he will use doubters as motivation in his rehabilitation following Achilles surgery.
He adds that he will play football again—maybe even this season.
On Monday, Rodgers tore his left Achilles tendon on the fourth play of the game in his debut with his new team, winning 22-16 against Buffalo in overtime.
The four-time NFL Most Valuable Player underwent surgery Wednesday in Los Angeles.
“I’d like to say, ‘show me the doubters,’” Rodgers said during an appearance on Pat McAfee’s ESPN show Friday. Show me the timelines, everything that you think can, should, or will happen.”
Rodgers’ surgery was performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache, an orthopedic surgeon in Los Angeles who has worked with many professional athletes.
The 39-year-old quarterback faces a long and arduous recovery and rehabilitation.
“Obviously things work against me given my age, but I like it,” Rodgers said. Stack the odds against me and see what happens. »
He said he has spoken to several people who have suffered similar injuries and rehabilitation.
“I want to get as much information as possible,” Rodgers said. Including what I have already put in place, there is a very good rehabilitation plan, which will surprise some. »
Rodgers has not set a date for his return, but he has made it clear that he plans to play football again. He was asked if he meant this season — if the Jets make the playoffs.
“I’m not going to make those kinds of statements,” Rodgers said. I want to stay honest with myself. I think (still), as Kevin Garnett said, that anything is possible. »
