There was a lot of buzz about Aaron Rodgers’ absence from the mandatory minicamps this offseason. Later, it was revealed that what coach Robert Saleh called an “unexcused absence” and a commitment made by A-Rod was actually a trip of relaxation and rejuvenation to Egypt. This news spread like wildfire, with many questioning 4x MVP’s seriousness and potential for the game.

However, later in an interview, besides mentioning “a beautiful trip to Egypt,” Rodgers claimed, “we are a team to watch this year.” But is the situation as smooth as it seems? Whatever hullabaloo is going on outside the building, what’s important is how the New York Jets locker room is feeling about his absence. The team’s DE Jermaine Johnson gave a glimpse of it.

The Jets believe in their quarterback!

In a recent interview with Tom Pelissero on “The Insiders” on July 19, 2024, Jets’ defensive end, Jermaine Johnson, joined to discuss Aaron Rodgers and his impact on the team. The NFL Insider asked the 25-year-old about the Jets quarterback who played only four snaps last season but was present for most of the spring activities. Johnson described Rodgers, “That man is a Hall of Famer, that will never change,” expressing his excitement about playing with him.

He further reminisced about watching A-Rod while growing up and conveyed confidence in the quarterback’s ability to lead the team. When Pelissero brought up Rodgers missing two days of mandatory minicamp for travel, Johnson brushed it off. He emphasized that Rodgers had attended most voluntary activities and was stepping up as expected.

He further assured that Rodgers’ brief absence had “zero impact on the locker room” saying, “he’s been stepping up and being earlier for this team, as everybody expects him to be….So I mean zero impacts.” Johnson also highlighted that everyone in the team trusts Rodgers both on and off the field.

However, after Johnson and Rodgers’ confidence in the team this 2024 season, some analysts’ predictions still say that the franchise will suffer again this time.

The team is in for a rough ride again, per analysts

There’s a lot of debate about how former Cal quarterback Aaron Rodgers will perform after his Achilles injury. Some believe Rodgers will return to his MVP form from 2021 and help the Jets reach the postseason. Others think a 40-year-old quarterback coming off such a major injury will struggle significantly. CBS Sports predictions reflect this divide, with Rodgers included in both categories of quarterbacks expected to exceed expectations and those expected to underperform in the group of quarterbacks.

Rodgers is fated alongside Anthony Richardson, Bryce Young, Russell Wilson, and Jordan Love. Cody Benjamin argues that despite the pressure on Rodgers, he might be underrated this season. He highlighted that Rodgers disappeared from the scene due to injury in 2023 and is now seen as aging, which is a risky factor. However, with a better offensive line, Rodgers could re-enter the top tier of quarterbacks.

On the flip side, Rodgers is also included in the group expected to underperform, alongside Kirk Cousins, Baker Mayfield, and Justin Herbert. Shanna McCarriston and Jared Dubin offered their thoughts. While explaining why they think Rodgers will suffer, McCarriston pointed out the quarterback’s age, recent injury, and questionable commitment, noting his tendency to skip practices.

She also doubted his ability to meet expectations given the Jets’ history of struggles and the significant contract he signed (a 3-year, $112,500,00). Dubin is similarly skeptical, stating that he cannot support the idea of an older quarterback quickly bouncing back from an Achilles tear. All in all, the opinions about Rodgers’ 2024 season are split. Therefore, it remains to be seen how he performs in his practically debut game with the Jets. The franchise is set to face off against the Super Bowl runner-up on September 9, 2024, in San Francisco.