Jets Officially Opening Aaron Rodgers's 21-Day Practice Window on Injured Reserve

Robert Saleh delivers surprising news about rehabbing quarterback

He's back in the building and he'll soon participate in practice.

As Aaron Rodgers speeds through his rehabilitation from an Achilles' rupture, the New York Jets' future Hall-of-Fame quarterback will take a significant step toward returning this week. With Rodgers currently on Injured Reserve, the Jets will open the field general's 21-day activation window according to head coach Robert Saleh.

"We're opening up the windows for Wes Schweitzer, Justin Hardee and Aaron [Rodgers]," said Saleh prior to Wednesday's practice in Florham Park as the team prepares to host the Atlanta Falcons on December 3.

Saleh made it a point to mention that Rodgers is on a different path than both Schweitzer and Hardee, who both landed on IR midseason. 

"For Aaron, different than like Hardee and Wes, where we're getting those guys ready to play. This isn't so much getting ready to play as much as it is a progression in his rehab," said Saleh.

The decision will allow Rodgers to start integrating into practice instead of having to work on the side field. 

"What he will be doing in practice is no different than what he'd be doing on Field 3 as you guys all watch it with regards to certain drills and individual," said Saleh. "Instead of throwing with staff members, he's throwing with teammates. There's no added risk to it."

Rodgers has been out since September 11 when he tore his Achilles tendon four offensive snaps into the season opener against the Buffalo Bills. Undergoing surgery two days later, his tendon was repaired using a "speed bridge" in hopes of sparking an unprecedentedly fast recovery.

"Dr. Neal ElAttrache did kind of a newer, innovative surgery," said Rodgers during an October 17 appearance on The Pat McAfee Show. "I asked him if we could push it. If we could push it beyond the normal protocols." 

Wagering Odds Suggest Realistic Chance Aaron Rodgers Returns This Season

READ MORE:

Fact or Fiction: Aaron Rodgers Will Play Again This Season

Jets Replace Practice Squad CB, Sign Former Cowboys' Starter

Jets Re-Sign Week 11 Starter to Practice Squad Deal

Boyle No Better Than Wilson as Jets' Offense Shows More of the Same