Aaron Rodgers Could Return This Season, per Report

Despite tearing his Achilles in Week 1, it's "not out of the question" that Aaron Rodgers could return this season for the Jets, a source told ESPN’s Adam Schefter. 

For comparison, Rams running back Cam Akers is essentially the fastest professional athlete to ever return from the same injury and he did it in five months. Rodgers tore his Achilles on Sept. 11 and Super Bowl LVIII is set for Feb. 11 in Las Vegas—just five months away. 

It was reported by NFL Network on Saturday that Rodgers underwent a “speed bridge” procedure on Wednesday, which is designed to accelerate the normal rehabilitation process for an Achilles tear. The quarterback himself said “anything is possible” when discussing a possible return this year as well. 

Bills defensive end Greg Rousseau (50) pressures New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) during the first quarter at MetLife Stadium on Sept. 11.

Robert Deutsch/USA TODAY Sports

However, a return would include several factors that have nothing to do with health. Firstly, New York has to make a return worth it. If the Jets are eliminated from playoff contention, that would surely end any debate on whether Rodgers should rush back to the field. Additionally, if Zach Wilson is thriving, Rodgers will not want to interfere with his growth, per ESPN, and he wouldn’t take the starting job back. 

It’s a long-shot, but there is a glimmer of hope for Jets fans so long as their team can  keep its head above water.