It has been rather quiet in East Rutherford, New Jersey, compared to this time last year. Aaron Rodgers moved to the Big Apple with massive fanfare and buzz. Head coach Robert Saleh provided an update that might rejuvenate the New York Jets supporters.
The New York Jets agreed to pay $75 million guaranteed with a base salary of $3.16 million to the veteran quarterback, aiming to reach the promised land of becoming Super Bowl champions. However, Aaron Rodgers suffered a very early setback, tearing his ACL on the opening day of the 2023 season.
Robert Saleh gave an update, per Bobby Kownack of NFL.com. He revealed that the 40-year-old was close to making a return last season and is itching to get back on the field in 2024.
Aaron, he's on a mission. He's doing his rehab. He was ready to go last year, man. I am going to speak for him and say that he's really excited about attacking this season. I'm excited to attack this season. Saleh said
Jets are adding reinforcements for Aaron Rodgers and want less noise around the team
Rodgers was the victim of a leaky offensive line in 2023, which PFF rated in the bottom three in the league. Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas addressed the problem during the latest free agency. The Jets added former Ravens teammates John Simpson and Morgan Moses , along with veteran All-Pro left tackle Tyron Smith.
You look at a guy like Morgan Moses, who played on a torn pec last year. Just an old-school soul...works his tail off. Tyron Smith has played at a very high level for a very long time, and John [Simpson] at guard—I mean, he's like the definition of strain. Saleh said
Toward the end of the season, when the Jets were on a losing streak and benched Zach Wilson, rumors started to spill out from alleged inside sources that the locker room was a mess. In the new season, Saleh wants to operate more discreetly.
I think (general manager) Joe Douglas has done a really nice job adding some really cool pieces to the football team. But last year was a little loud. We welcome a little bit of quietness. Robert Saleh said
Third-choice Tim Boyle, who replaced Wilson following his demotion, was released amid all the controversy. Rodgers attempted damage control by showing full support for both GM Douglas and Wilson as the Jets kept plummeting in every game. In the end, they won only seven games, finishing third in the AFC East.
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