The New York Jets made a major splash this offseason acquiring quarterback Aaron Rodgers from the Green Bay Packers. His presence was felt from Day 1, as he brought a swagger and aura to the franchise that they had been missing for years.
Aaron Rodgers was considered a massive upgrade over what the Jets had been using at quarterback the last few seasons. There were legitimate Super Bowl aspirations surrounding the franchise, but as quickly as he arrived, he is now gone.
On his fourth play during the team’s season opener against the Buffalo Bills on Monday Night Football, Aaron Rodgers suffered an injury. The energy was sapped out of MetLife Stadium as he went to the ground and waited to be helped off the field.
The Jets’ worst nightmare was playing out in real-time. Aaron Rodgers suffered a devastating injury, tearing his left Achilles, which will keep him sidelined for the entire season. The team will now have to turn back to Zach Wilson, the No. 2 pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, as their starting quarterback for the time being.
On Wednesday, he spoke out about the injury for the first time, sharing a heartfelt message on his Instagram account.
“Thank you to every person that has reached out, called, texted, DM’d, connected through a friend, etc. It has meant a ton to me, and I’ll try and get back to all of you soon 🥹❤️
I’m completely heartbroken and moving through all of the emotions, but deeply touched and humbled by the support and love. 💔 Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers as I begin the healing process today. 🙏 ♾️ ❤️
The night is darkest before the dawn. And I shall rise yet again.
Proud of my guys, 1-0 🛩️ #”
Aaron Rodgers will now begin the tough process of coming back from one of the most devastating injuries that an athlete can suffer. There are already questions about whether or not his career will be ended by this injury, as he was contemplating retirement this offseason.
Jets’ head coach Robert Saleh doesn’t believe so, as he said he would be shocked if that is the way the future Hall of Famer goes out. That is likely a sentiment that many people share, as Aaron Rodgers won’t want his lasting image in a Jets uniform to be him on the field needing assistance to get to the sideline after suffering an injury.
