It was worthy of a movie. Aaron Rodgers ditched his crutches and orthopedic boot before taking to the field for his New York Jets’ warmup on Sunday to throw a few passes.
All this, less than five weeks after a torn left Achilles tendon.
His coaches and teammates were invigorated by this presence, the fans who saw the videos on social media could not believe their eyes and the journalists were stunned in the press box.
“It’s incredible,” said Zach Wilson, starting quarterback for the Jets’ last five games, in Rodgers’ absence. With his behavior and the way he attacks everything [that comes his way], I’m not surprised at all. »
On the Pat McAfee Show on ESPN, Rodgers said Tuesday that he is “obviously ahead” in his recovery. He also said he had a very good feeling when passing, even if he was “limping a little bit.”
The 39-year-old quarterback added that it was a “special moment” for him to have a ball in his hands again. He even put weight on his right foot, wearing a shoe with a raised heel.
“I just felt a little more normal during an abnormal time,” he said. That’s all I was trying to do. »
This period is particularly marked by the convalescence process. Dr. Neal ElAttrache reportedly performed a “speed bridge” surgical procedure to treat the tear, with the goal of speeding recovery.
Rodgers has already shattered the traditional early timelines associated with this type of injury, which usually keeps players sidelined for six to nine months.
“From my understanding, the fact that he’s walking, it’s unbelievable,” Jets head coach Robert Saleh said.
Those few moments on the field started speculation about whether Rodgers could return this season.
“Let’s cool the engines a little,” Rodgers said with a smile. He confirmed that this was his ultimate goal, but that he was still far from being able to declare that he would achieve it.
“I’m not going to set a precise timetable,” he warned. This makes absolutely no sense. Anyone who does it doesn’t realize that there are a lot of things that need to happen to get there. But it’s going to take jogging, then explosive movements, then training, and then getting the green light from everyone. »
Rodgers became a leader for the Jets as soon as he was acquired from the Green Bay Packers in April and as soon as he entered the club’s practice facility. Players quickly embraced his approach and appreciated his natural leadership.
Now his possible return, which seemed improbable five weeks ago when he collapsed on the pitch, could add to his legend.
“He’s already a Hall of Fame quarterback,” tight end Tyler Conklin said. It’s going to be exciting to watch him write the rest of his story. He loves proving people wrong and I think he thrives in those situations. »
