Will Aaron Rodgers play in New York Jets’ final preseason game against the New York Giants?
With the start of the 2024-25 NFL season fast approaching, teams are coming to the end of their preseason run but we’re yet to see the Jets’ star. Will we?
After seeing his first season in New York derailed by injury in his debut game back in Week 1 of last season, Aaron Rodgers is now set to make his highly anticipated return to the field. The question is will he do so before the preseason ends or will he get his snaps after the campaign has begun in earnest?
Aaron Rodgers might play against the Giants
On Saturday, there was likely some disappointment for New York Jets fans when they saw their team take to the field for another preseason game without star quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Indeed, with only one preseason game left, one can sympathize with those who are wondering if the four-time MVP will finally return from the Achilles injury that ended his 2023 season before the 2024 season begins. To be clear, the Jets will end their preseason slate with a game against the New York Giants on August 24th. So, will Aaron Rodgers play?
While the answer to that question remains unclear, it’s interesting to note that both Rodgers and Jets head coach Robert Saleh seemed to hint at the idea that it’s a possibility. “You never know,” Rodgers said during Saturday’s 15-12 win over the Carolina Panthers. “I’m not sure. I mean, I feel like Saleh already ruled me out a few weeks ago, but if I beg him, maybe I’ll get to be out there.” Rodgers was of course referring to Saleh’s comments back in July when he suggested that it was unlikely that Rodgers would play during the preseason, explaining at the time that he preferred to be extra careful with Rodgers.
Yet, on Saturday, Saleh seemed to have a somewhat different stance when asked whether he had decided if Rodgers would feature in the team’s final preseason game. “I haven’t,” Saleh said of Rodgers’ status for the coming game. “Not yet. We’ll talk about it later.” To be fair, Saleh’s suggestion is more in keeping with things he has said recently, suggesting that Rodgers could get some minutes against the Giants i.e. before the season kicks off. Speaking ahead of Saturday’s game, this is what Saleh had to say. “[Aaron’s] going to be included in the conversations along with the coordinators and [general manager Joe Douglas], and we’re going to make the best decision for the team.” For now, we can only wait and watch.