The New York Jets bought in veteran QB Aaron Rodgers in 2023 to boost their Super Bowl chances. The move didn’t work last year, as A-Rod got injured in the first game. He couldn’t fully recover in the entire season. After working on his fitness during the off-season, the QB looked good during the practice.

Yet HC Robert Saleh is not taking any chances. While talking to reporters, Saleh said they might not play Rodgers in the preseason games against the Washington Commanders on August 10 and the Carolina Panthers on August 18. And he found support from one of the Jets veterans.

Former Jets LB Bart Scott echoed the same sentiment on the First Take podcast on July 31, 2024. Claiming this season is make or break for the franchise and everything depends on the QB’s fitness, he said, “I’m not putting the franchise at risk. I’m going to allow him to continue to get healthy. I’m going to continue to let this offensive line develop.” LB also pointed out that the team needs to win playoff games and push for the Super Bowl or AFC Championship.

With so many comments pouring in from different places, let’s check out how the veteran QB is feeling. Claiming that the physical recovery from his Achilles injury is complete, Rodgers said before the training camp that he feels stronger than before because of the squats he did. A-Rod also added that the remaining 5% part is mental. Gang Green depends heavily on their star player to steer the offense in the winning direction.

Once the season begins, questions about his fitness will be answered. However, the 40-year-old does not have age on his side. In that scenario, backup QBs become very important in the long run.

In the absence of Aaron Rodgers, which QB is most likely to play?

Jets bore the brunt of not having a good, fit QB in the 2023 season. After A-Rod’s injury, they were forced to play with Zach Wilson in the season. As expected, the season ended miserably with 7 wins and 10 losses. But they have worked on this shortcoming in the off-season. The corrective action started in the 2024 NFL Draft by acquiring Jordan Travis and Andrew Peasley. Later on, they added 2 experienced QBs, Tyrod Taylor and Adrian Martinez.

If the Jets have to start with any other QB than Rodgers, Taylor looks the most suitable. 2024 will be his 15th season in the league. While he has missed most games of the last 8 seasons, he can back that up with his experience. But frankly speaking, Gang Green would not want him to be playing in the game’s most important position. Especially when A-Rod is looking good.

The fate of Apple City lies in the hands of Aaron Rodgers. Will they qualify for the playoffs this time?