The New York Jets‘ Aaron Rodgers stunt last year has yet to pay off. The veteran quarterback is one of the best players on the Jets’ offense, but Rodgers has yet to make it count and make his arrival at the Big Apple a fairy tale.
Set to play Game 3 of their preseason against the New York Giants, Jets head coach Robert Saleh has confirmed that Rodgers won’t take the field on Saturday night. Anyone who saw the recent joint practice between the two teams knows why the veteran quarterback would choose to sit out.
This decision aligns with the team’s preseason strategy, which sees no starters participating in these early games. Aaron Rodgers, who turns 41 this year, will save his game time to return for the season opener on Sept. 9 against the San Francisco 49ers.
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Saleh’s choice to rest Rodgers isn’t new. Last year, Rodgers played briefly in the final preseason game. Saleh’s approach this time around focuses on the broader scope of preseason preparation.
“We’ve done a lot of good work with quality opponents over the past few weeks,” Saleh noted. His obvious reference was the joint practices with teams like the Giants, Carolina Panthers, and Atlanta Falcons. With around 800 reps in training camp, Saleh feels confident that Rodgers is more than ready for the season ahead.
The date is also important, as it falls just shy of one year since Rodgers’ Achilles injury. Rodgers himself seems at ease with sitting out the preseason. He’s expressed a nonchalant attitude towards the final preseason game, highlighting that it doesn’t represent real football.
“The preseason isn’t real football,” Rodgers said about his preference for maintaining focus on the season opener rather than preseason games.
The lack of game action means Rodgers won’t face live hits until the regular season. However, Saleh is optimistic for Rodgers, who is showing impressive mobility and performance in training camp.
With backups like Tyrod Taylor and Adrian Martinez who are keen on handling duties in the preseason finale, the Jets are using this time to strategize and test their roster once and for all.
The offensive line is also gearing up for its first game action with new starters, making the entire squad ready for the real challenges of the NFL season. As for Aaron Rodgers, fans will have to wait a little longer. However, many are waiting to see Rodgers back in full swing and proving that he is actually worth the while.