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Aaron Rodgers Secures First Full Game Win with Jets: ‘Long Time Coming’
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — After a long wait of 623 days, Aaron Rodgers stepped off the field victorious once again.
The New York Jets secured a dramatic 24-17 win against the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium. While the game may not have been particularly flashy, Rodgers played a pivotal role in the fourth-quarter drive that led to the winning touchdown.
He relished every moment of the win, which kept him from experiencing the first 0-2 start of his 20-year career. “It was great,” the 40-year-old quarterback reflected after the game. “It was a long time coming.” He emphasized how crucial games like this can be later in the season, especially against strong opponents.
This victory marked Rodgers’ first complete game win with the Jets. His last win before this was on January 1, 2023, while he was still with the Green Bay Packers. Although he received credit for the Jets’ win in their 2023 opener, he had only played four snaps before injuring his left Achilles.
Rodgers showcased his experience and talent during a crucial seven-play, 74-yard drive that culminated in rookie running back Braelon Allen’s second touchdown, a 20-yard run, putting the Jets ahead 24-17 with just 4:31 left in the game. He was flawless on this drive, completing all five of his passes for 60 yards, which included connections of 26 and 19 yards to Garrett Wilson and Mike Williams, respectively.
Tight end Tyler Conklin also chimed in, noting that “Aaron did some Aaron stuff out there,” highlighting how Rodgers’ presence elevates the team’s performance.
Following a tough loss to the San Francisco 49ers, the Jets desperately needed this win. Despite injuries to key defensive players like Jermaine Johnson and C.J. Mosley during the game, the Jets’ defense stepped up, managing a critical fourth-down stop in the final seconds to secure the victory.
Rodgers’ performance in the closing minutes was closely observed by teammates and coach Robert Saleh, who emphasized the importance of having a Hall of Fame quarterback in those situations. “He’s had production for a very, very long time. He’s seen everything,” Saleh remarked, pointing out that the younger players benefit from his calmness and experience.
Rodgers finished the game completing 18 of 30 passes for 176 yards, marking the 24th consecutive game under 300 yards— the longest stretch of his career. Nevertheless, he managed two touchdown passes, including a 12-yard screen to Allen and a 26-yard throw to Breece Hall. This marked the first time since 1994 that two different Jets running backs caught touchdown passes in the same game.
On the touchdown to Allen, Rodgers mentioned that he suggested the play to offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett. He executed a perfect misdirection that left the defense guessing.
For Hall’s touchdown, Rodgers relayed how the play unfolded. After mismanaging the clock and calling a timeout, Hall approached him with a suggestion. “If there’s a linebacker out there, throw me a go ball,” Hall advised. Recognizing the matchup against linebacker Kenneth Murray Jr., Rodgers made the call and exploited it perfectly.
Braelon Allen also expressed his admiration for Rodgers, stating, “You know you’re going to win the game” with him at the helm. As the youngest player to score an offensive touchdown since 1950, it was a memorable moment for Allen, especially given his long-standing admiration for Rodgers raised in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.
Postgame, Rodgers shared a light-hearted moment with Titans defender Jeffery Simmons, who had previously called him “a crybaby” during the game. Rodgers responded with humor, recognizing that competitive banter is part of the game.
Ultimately, this victory was not just about the win but also about reinforcing team spirit and showcasing the resilience of the Jets.
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