The 2023 NFL season has yet to start, and the New York Jets are already dealing with misfortune. On Tuesday, quarterback Aaron Rodgers told reporters he suffered a minor calf strain and will miss some time. However, the quarterback said he doesn’t believe the injury is serious.
The Jets started OTAs on Monday, the first step of one of the most anticipated seasons in recent franchise memory. Despite the injury, Rodgers remains optimistic about his decision to play for New York this season.
“I have an excitement about coming down Jets Drive,” Rodgers told reporters on Tuesday. “Every day, there’s been something that’s been a special sign. … that reminds me I’m in the right place.”
New York’s offseason was heavily centered around the veteran quarterback. The Jets acquired Rodgers from the Green Bay Packers on April 24th for multiple picks in the 2023 NFL Draft and a conditional 2024 second-round pick that becomes a first if Rodgers plays 65 percent of the plays in 2024.
The Jets also spent the offseason adding some of Rodgers’ former teammates and coaches. The team hired Nathaniel Hackett as its offensive coordinator before the Rodgers trade was official and signed Randall Cobb, Allen Lazard and Tim Boyle. Rodgers cited Hackett as one of the main reasons he decided to play for the Jets this season.
As for new faces, Rodgers will have reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year Garrett Wilson and a Jets’ defense that finished fourth in total yards allowed per game last season.
The pressure will be on Rodgers and the Jets to compete for a playoff spot this season despite playing in a talented AFC East division. The Jets have not made the playoffs since 2010 — the longest current drought in the NFL — and patience in New York is sure to be wearing thin.
The Jets and Rodgers will begin their critical season on Monday Night Football on Sept. 11 against the division rival Buffalo Bills and Josh Allen.
