Jets get massive Aaron Rodgers update, but there is a catch

Apr 26, 2023; Florham Park, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) talks to the media during the introductory press conference at Atlantic Health Jets Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Tom Horak-USA TODAY Sports

New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers appears to be at the 1-yard line in his recovery from injury. But it remains to be seen if the Jets will actually let Rodgers get to the end zone.

Rodgers returned to the practice field late last month — less than three months after he suffered a tear in his Achilles in Week 1.

The 4-time MVP has reportedly impressed his teammates with some incredible plays in practice.

Rodgers has also impressed his team’s medical staff enough that the Jets QB is expected to be medically cleared to play as early as next week.

After recently being cleared to practice, New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers is likely to be medically cleared to play this week upcoming, league sources told ESPN.https://t.co/3xeoLRJSbB

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 17, 2023

However, Rodgers’ chances of playing may reportedly hinge on Sunday’s Jets-Dolphins game, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. A Jets win would bump up the team’s record to 6-8 and keep their hopes alive for a playoff berth. A loss would give the team little incentive to put Rodgers at risk for further injury.

Rapoport added that the Jets see Rodgers playing as “a serious long-shot” despite any medical clearance. Jets executives are said to prefer keeping Rodgers out until next year while allowing him to continue to progress this season.

The report also stated that Rodgers “pushed it extremely hard” in practice and will likely campaign to get on the field.

The Jets will have some serious decisions to make on their QB real soon.