Retirement Seemingly Unlikely for Injured Aaron Rodgers

Future Hall-of-Fame field general is under contract with Jets through 2024

It's still too early to tell, but it's starting to sound like we haven't seen the last of Aaron Rodgers in a Green & White uniform.

The New York Jets' 39-year-old quarterback suffered a season-ending Achilles rupture four offensive snaps into the Monday Night Football season opener, but an early retirement seems more unlikely after listening to head coach Robert Saleh's comments on Wednesday in Florham Park.

"I'd be shocked if this is the way he's gonna go out," said Saleh. "At the same time, for him, he's working through a whole lot of head space, things he needs to deal with."

First, a plan for surgery must be set.  Saleh, however, was unable to provide a timetable for the procedures that Rodgers must undergo to repair the tear.

Rodgers, who is under contract with Gang Green through 2024, has said, on multiple occasions, he did not intend to take a "one-and-done" approach to his marriage with the Jets. 

"I’m taking it one year at a time. I’d love to play as long as I can," said the four-time NFL MVP on August 1. "As long as it’s fun, as long as my body feels good, as long as they want me. Yeah, I’d love to keep it rolling."

The pessimistic Jets' fan will point to the superstar quarterback's comments from a March episode of The Pat McAfee Show where he said he was "90 percent retired" before embarking on his offseason darkness retreat.

On the first day of training camp practice this past July, Rodgers provided a multi-year vision while mentioning how he's enjoying his time with his new team.

"It’s pretty exciting," said Rodgers. "Knowing you can do something, you have a good window. It’s not just a one-year thing where you can be competitive, which is fun, but yeah, I love coming in."

Wagering odds, provided by BetOnline, heavily lean toward Rodgers returning for the 2024 campaign. Betting in favor Rodgers's return is a -500 proposition.  Those who back a Rodgers retirement will receive a +300 payout should they win the bet.

From BetOnline:

Will Aaron Rodgers retire before Week 1of the 2024 season? 

Yes +300 (3/1) 

No -500 (1/5)

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