They say the speed bridge is helping, but ask Aaron Rodgers about his dedication. Just one step is needed for Rodgers to be back in the games. On September 11, Buffalo Bills‘ Leonard Floyd injured A-Rod’s Achilles tendon just four plays into the QB’s first game with the New York Jets. Since then, the follow-ups the four-time MVP has given, are enough to astonish anyone. Now, Pat McAfee’s latest video has come like an early Christmas gift for A-Rod fans.
Soon after the surgery, Rodgers appeared on the Pat McAfee Show to recall a Kevin Garnett quote, “Anything is possible.” Since dropping that hint, and now emerging even stronger, Rodgers has silenced his critics and debunked the speculated recovery timeline of 4 to 6 months for his Achilles tendon. However, when asked a few weeks ago, he prioritized his health and indicated that he won’t be returning this season. Now a new video of A-Rod is perplexing the fans.
Pat McAfee’s claims about Aaron Rodgers have a visual backing
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Aaron Rodgers talked to Pat McAfee last month on The Pat McAfee Show, mentioning two things that would influence his decision to come back in 2023. First, he counted his health as his priority, second was the Jets’ chances of making it to the playoffs. However, he hinted that a comeback is unlikely, especially on his 40th birthday. But now a new video of him practicing has emerged, showing Rodgers popping on a round “in a fresh Achilles”. The former NFL punter is left surprised and asks AJ, “Is this dude playing this weekend? What’s going on?”
In the video, A-Rod is seen throwing a perfect pass, and putting pressure on his recovering foot. McAfee said, “I don’t know what he was hanging out with Neal ElAttrache (orthopedic surgeon) for so long.” He added, showing the video of Rodgers from the practice field, that Rodgers said “he’s just opting out of season. That’s quite a way to frame an entire situation as an actual journalist saying that….so if he could do that we assume he can move.”
PatMcAfee’s team also emphasized that Rodgers didn’t provide a clear answer when they asked him about his status. He mentioned being immunized and hinted at having several things to figure out before a potential comeback. There was also a mention of December 24th (the next game day of the Jets). Still, Rodgers downplayed it, and McAfee’s team recalled signs like not using crutches and leaving his game jersey hanging being indicators of his return soon.
Well, he may not be doing reps but the video certainly generates a curious thought that he might make a comeback this season. Meanwhile, Jets’ coach Robert Saleh, who was present at the practice field, also feels the same that A-Rod is recovering well.
Aaron Rodgers’ status in Robert Saleh’s version!
Jets head coach Robert Saleh provided an update on Aaron Rodgers’ Achilles recovery, mentioning that it’s progressing faster than expected. Rodgers actively participated in various drills during practice, and Saleh was impressed, noting that Rodgers looked normal and commended his dedication.
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Nov 20, 2022; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh watches a game against the New England Patriots during the first half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-USA TODAY SportsHe said, “It’s unbelievable. Credit to him, especially in this day and age where a hangnail can affect a game week, but this dude is grinding to try to get himself back. It just shows how much he cares. I have an appreciation for him.” Interestingly, an NFL insider previously revealed that the Jets QB told NFL reporter Melissa Stark that his goal is to be back by mid-December.
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The Jets have until next Wednesday to activate Rodgers from injured reserve, and he still needs to complete some recovery milestones, such as participating in 11-on-11 drills. The realistic picture is that the 40-year-old athlete limps a little. But, it is also true that all those barbell squats and 425 pounds for reps are nothing short of a miracle.
Watch This Story: Aaron Rodgers Reveals Bold Goal for Timely Comeback From Injury