Just when and if quarterback Aaron Rodgers is going to suit up again this season has been a constant topic this season. Both Rodgers and the New York Jets have been holding out hope ever since he tore his Achilles way back in Week 1. While it seemed impossible at the time, it looks as if Rodgers’ chances of coming back this season have never looked more real.
Latest Surrounding Aaron Rodgers’ Potential Return
There have been many timelines and possible dates surrounding Rodgers and his possible return, and while nothing has been concrete in that department, there is a growing sentiment that there is a week in mind for a possible return, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Early Sunday morning, Rapoport alluded to the date for a possible return seems to be Week 16 on Christmas Eve against the Washington Commanders.
“Here’s my understanding after talking to several people involved in the situation,” Rapoport said Sunday. “The most likely spot that Aaron Rodgers could return would be the December 24th game against the Commanders.”
While that is good news for the Jets and their playoff hopes, Rapoport alluded to the fact this plan is contingent on the Jets still being alive in the playoff race with something for Rodgers to come back for.
MORE: Will the Raiders Trade Davante Adams?
“For my understanding, if he could protect himself and if the Jets are in the playoff hunt, this is possible.”
According to another NFL insider, Jay Glazer of Fox Sports, Rodgers sent a workout video to the Jets brass this week that “Blew their minds.”
Something that seemed nearly impossible just 11 weeks ago now has a very real possible return date. The ball is now in New York’s court to keep their season alive until then. If they can, they may get a very good Christmas present as a result.
Jets Upcoming Schedule
Every game in the NFL is important, especially when trying to keep pace in a highly competitive AFC playoff race. However, for the Jets, it’s taken on a new purpose.
It would be a shame to waste such aggressive rehab efforts by Rodgers and staff to even give him a chance to make this a possibility.
Ahead of their Sunday matchup against the Buffalo Bills, New York is 4–5 on the year and currently out of the playoff picture looking in. Between now and a possible Rodgers return, the Jets have dates with the Bills, Miami Dolphins, Atlanta Falcons, Houston Texans, and then the Dolphins one more time before Christmas Eve.
Just what the playoff picture looks like by then remains to be seen, but it will be up to the players and coaches in that building to allow Rodgers the opportunity to come back under center.
From the current NFL standings to team depth charts to coverage of every game in the 18-week NFL schedule, we have all the news from around the league to keep you up to speed!