Jets HC Robert Saleh shares what fuels Aaron Rodgers

New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh continues to drop hints that quarterback Aaron Rodgers will make an incredible return to the lineup this season after Rodgers suffered an Achilles tear in Week 1 on Sept. 11. 

"I think he's fueled by doubt — I don't think, I know — he's fueled by doubt," Saleh said about Rodgers during a Tuesday appearance on the NFL Network "Good Morning Football" program, per Kevin Patra of the league's website. "The more you doubt him, the more fuel he has. He's on a mission. There's one thing I've learned about him, in my very short time with him, is that when he's got something on his mind and he wants to prove something, he's going to prove it...We're leaving the door open for him but it's amazing to see how hard he's been working and the intent at which he's been doing it."

Rodgers spent time at the Jets facility on Saturday, enjoyed a game of catch on Sunday and rocked a headset during New York's 20-14 win over the Philadelphia Eagles. Following that victory, Saleh told NBC Sports' Peter King that the 39-year-old is "absolutely dominating rehab" and "really wants to get back this year." 

Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio then shared on Monday that "some in the medical community" believe Rodgers suffered merely a partial Achilles tear last month, and at least one injury expert speculated that the future Hall of Famer may be able to play as soon as Week 15 when the Jets are at the Miami Dolphins on Dec. 17. 

Saleh declined on Tuesday to offer anything resembling a timeline regarding when Rodgers could next take a meaningful snap for the club. 

"Your guess is as good as mine," Saleh explained. "Like I said, the more you doubt him and the more you doubt whether or not he's able to do it, I think it just fuels him. I mean, if I was going to bet — even though gambling is illegal for employees — I would bet on him, not against him."

The Jets entered their Week 7 bye at 3-3 but likely will need better play from current starting signal-caller Zach Wilson if they are to remain in the playoff hunt long enough for Rodgers to attempt what seemed, a few weeks ago, to be an impossible comeback. 

Gang Green next faces the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium on Oct. 29 after the 1-5 Giants host the 3-3 Washington Commanders this coming Sunday.