In the last 2 seasons, the New York Jets offense faced challenges with injuries. But 2024 is looking good for them. First with the return of veteran QB Aaron Rodgers. And now with the comeback of the Alijah Vera-Tucker. Both suffered season-ending Achilles injuries in 2023 (Alijah also suffered a similar tendon injury in 2022). With both players in the training camp, the offense is looking dangerous.

Much-needed relief came on the 3rd day of the camp when both players were present during practice. While Rodgers made 2 touchdowns in 11-on-11 drills, the guard also looked in fine form. Exuding confidence after seeing his players in the camp, Saleh said, “There’s a different feel. It’s a lot calmer. Guys have a much more business-like approach.”

To sum it up, Jets’ 1st draft pick (14th overall) in 2021, Alijah Vera-Tucker, missed a major chunk of 2022 and 2023 because of injuries. During the 2022 week 7 game against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field Stadium he tore a triceps tendon, which ruled him out of the season. Working tirelessly on his fitness, he made a comeback in the 2023 season. Though he looked good in the first 4 games, the curse of Empower Field struck again during the week 5 game against Orange Crush. This time, an Achilles injury took him down.

The guard wasn’t the only player they missed. To revive the team, Gang Green brought in Aaron Rodgers in 2023. Expectations crumbled like a pack of cards when he injured his left ankle (later diagnosed as Achilles tendon rupture) in the first game of the season against the Buffalo Bills at MetLife Stadium. By the time he recovered from it, the Jets were out of the playoff race. Forced to play with Zach Wilson, they couldn’t give much competition and were reeling with 7 wins & 10 losses by the end of the season. Head Coach Robert Saleh tried to stabilize his offensive line, but there was little he could do in the absence of key players.

Though it looks promising now, things weren’t looking this good a few days back. It all started when the QB did not attend the mandatory minicamp because of his Egypt vacation.

Egypt trip was on my bucket list for a long time: Aaron Rodgers

The veteran doesn’t have any regret missing the minicamp for his trip to Egypt. After the 1st day of training camp, the QB explained his stance while talking to reporters. Calling it his lifelong dream, he said he wanted to go there since his high school days. He admitted his mistake in scheduling the trip by basing it on 2023’s off-season schedule. However, the QB claimed everything is now good between him and the head coach.

Reportedly, Saleh didn’t like the veteran missing the minicamp. The Jets also fined him around $50 thousand. While explaining the situation to journalists, Rodgers said he talked to the coach and sorted out the situation like professionals. He added, “It is what it is. I’m an adult, I knew what I was getting into. I wish there hadn’t been a conflict scheduling-wise, but it was what it was. It’s obviously more of an issue outside the building than there was inside the building. Robert and I are great.” Now that the issue is sorted, the team looks well-balanced.

Rodgers has already announced that they are one of those 8 to 12 teams that make it. The offensive line is looking stronger than before. The Jets are pumped up and fans are excited to see what this season will bring for the team. Do you think the more than a decade-long playoff drought will finally end for the Jets?