Aaron Rodgers’ first season with the New York Jets lasted solely 4 performs, however he nonetheless made an influence. On Friday, he was voted by his teammates because the Jets’ most inspirational participant for the 2023 season.
“I’ve mentioned it one million occasions, he loves his teammates and his teammates love him,” coach Robert Saleh mentioned. “He is so intentional with how he approaches all people within the constructing. He is very considerate in the best way he does issues, and he is an amazing human. He is rather well deserving of this award.”
Rodgers’ Achilles’ damage and comeback bid grew to become the primary storyline of the Jets’ disappointing season (6-10), which ends Sunday towards the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. He underwent surgical procedure Sept. 13, two days after rupturing his left Achilles, and returned to apply solely 2 ½ months later — months forward of the standard restoration time.
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Although medical specialists mentioned a return to play was extremely unlikely, Rodgers, 40, insisted that it was potential. He mentioned he was prepared to play at lower than 100% if the crew was in playoff competition, however the Jets had been eradicated Dec. 17 with a 30-0 loss to the Miami Dolphins. Two days later, Rodgers introduced that his season was over.
“It is inspiring, man,” left sort out Duane Brown mentioned. “That is probably the most troublesome accidents to come back again from. To see his restoration, even with out being on the sphere, has been outstanding. And the perspective he has — I am certain the day-to-day is not straightforward, however he does not complain about it.
“He retains every part gentle and the temper gentle. He has enjoyable on the market. He is simply very youthful in his strategy. Like I mentioned, it is inspiring, it is motivating and it is unprecedented.”
Rodgers wasn’t across the crew for practically three months, as he opted to do his rehab close to his residence in Malibu, California. Throughout that interval, he attended most video games, then flew again to the West Coast. He rejoined the crew on a full-time foundation in late November, when his apply window was opened.
The four-time MVP, traded by the Inexperienced Bay Packers final April, mentioned he needs to play at the very least two extra seasons. He is beneath contract by way of 2025, although the ultimate 12 months is not assured. He took a big pay reduce earlier than the season, offering the crew with fast cap aid.
The Jets’ most inspirational participant award is identify after the late Dennis Byrd, who broke his neck whereas taking part in for the Jets in 1992. He was killed in a automotive crash in 2016. The Jets introduced six in-house awards, together with crew MVP, which went to linebacker Quincy Williams.
