Aaron Rodgers Prepares for Return with a ‘Smirk’ on Jets’ 5th Snap

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — Robert Saleh, the head coach of the New York Jets, was seen chuckling when asked a significant question that had a stark impact a year ago. As the Jets prepare for their season opener against the San Francisco 49ers, the reporter’s inquiry focused on whether Saleh and the franchise would feel a sense of relief when Aaron Rodgers and the offense reached their fifth play.

“Probably,” Saleh responded, a smile crossing his face. “Nah, we’re fine.”

However, he quickly hesitated, realizing the weight of his words. “I’m not even …,” he said, pausing to playfully reconsider his statement. “If lightning … lightning … never mind.”

The Jets certainly hope that lightning won’t strike twice. Last season, in a crushing turn of events, Rodgers suffered a torn Achilles tendon mere seconds into his debut with the team.

Reflecting on his journey, Rodgers commented, “Part of turning the page was coming back to practice last year.” He emphasized the importance of training camp and other preparations that led him to feel ready for the upcoming clash.

This Monday night, he will face the 49ers, a team he grew up adoring, just a couple of days after the one-year anniversary of his devastating injury.

Rodgers hinted he might share a knowing smile during his fifth snap against San Francisco. “I’m sure they’ll catch it,” he remarked regarding the cameras. He also expressed that he is in a positive mental space, reflecting on a year filled with both hardships and achievements.

“There’s always a perspective moment during the anthem to collect your thoughts and send gratitude out to the universe,” Rodgers shared, highlighting the importance of appreciating the opportunity to compete.

Throughout the summer, Rodgers appeared sharp and agile, showing off a passing game reminiscent of his younger days, with Saleh commenting, “He’s not a 40-year-old quarterback. I think he’s going to be just fine.”

For the Jets to accomplish their ambitions this season, they need Rodgers to perform better than merely fine. He understands that there will always be something to prove, though the nature of that competition shifts as he ages.

“Just myself at this point,” Rodgers clarified, emphasizing his pride in performance. He holds high expectations for himself, firmly rooted in his past experiences of greatness.

Rodgers has reiterated the Jets’ goal this season, which is to end with a trip to the Super Bowl in New Orleans in February. Recent betting odds suggest that the Jets are gaining momentum, potentially becoming the favorites to surpass the Buffalo Bills in the AFC East and putting an end to the franchise’s 13-year playoff drought.

Moreover, they are increasingly seen as contenders for the AFC’s spot in the Super Bowl, a scenario not witnessed since the team’s glory days with Joe Namath in the 1968 season.

Recounting insights from his past, Rodgers recalled former Packers coach Mike McCarthy’s lesson from 2006, advising his team about the challenges that come with success. “As the years went on, I realized how important those words are,” he noted.

As optimism envelops the Jets organization, the anticipation builds that this could indeed be the season that changes everything for a franchise yearning for success.

“I think what (McCarthy) meant was you can’t ride the highs too high,” Rodgers explained. He is aware that regardless of how they perform on Monday, external narratives will unfold rapidly. “If we win, the headlines will proclaim we’re going to the Super Bowl. If we lose, it will be ‘same old Jets.’”

He stressed the need to focus on their internal processes and to maintain professionalism and competitiveness each week. “We’ve got to trust the process,” he said, urging his teammates to perform and let the outcome take care of itself.

As for the upcoming game, Saleh mentioned the uncertainty surrounding edge rusher Haason Reddick, who remains in contract discussions. Despite this, he didn’t dismiss the possibility of Reddick participating in the opener, indicating faith in veterans to prepare adequately, as others in the 49ers organization have also recently returned from contract disputes.