Aaron Rodgers Avoids Injury Scans Amid Struggles in Jets Season

• Nov 24, 2024

Aaron Rodgers, who turns 41 next week, is facing increased scrutiny as his performance suggests he is not at full health. The quarterback, recovering from an Achilles injury sustained during his first game with the New York Jets last year, has shown flashes of brilliance but has mostly struggled since Week 3 against the New England Patriots.

Rodgers has been seen limping off the field in recent weeks, sparking concerns about his physical condition. Reports from the NFL Network indicate that Rodgers has resisted undergoing injury scans, allegedly to avoid revealing the severity of his injuries and being forced off the field. This decision has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts, especially as the Jets' season continues to disappoint.

A Season of Challenges for the Jets

The Jets are now 3-8, falling far short of preseason expectations. Many had hoped Rodgers’ arrival would end the team’s long playoff drought—the longest in North American professional sports. Instead, the team has faced turmoil, including major leadership changes.

In the past month, owner Woody Johnson has fired head coach Robert Saleh and, more recently, general manager Joe Douglas. These moves signal a desire for a fresh start, with Rodgers’ future with the team becoming increasingly uncertain. Reports suggest Johnson considered benching Rodgers after a Week 4 loss to the Denver Broncos, during which the quarterback reportedly sustained a hamstring injury he has seemingly ignored.

Declining Performance Raises Questions

Statistically, Rodgers’ performance reflects the struggles. Completing 63.4% of his passes, he is on track for his second-lowest yardage in a full season. His current quarterback rating of 88.9 is the lowest of his career in a full season. While some of these numbers may be tied to his health, others point to larger issues within the team.

The Jets are entering their bye week, offering Rodgers a chance to recover and possibly sway the front office’s opinion of his future with the team. However, signs indicate that team leadership may have already decided to move in a different direction.

With Rodgers’ reluctance to address his injuries and the team’s poor performance, questions linger about his role in the Jets’ future and whether he remains a solution—or part of the problem.