Jets QB Aaron Rodgers initially thought his career was over after Achilles tear 

Aaron Rodgers‘ initial reaction to the 2023 Achilles injury that ended his first campaign in New York after four plays was to believe his career was over.

“I was really thinking, ‘This is it. You don’t come back from this injury,'” Rodgers said during an interview on the “I Can Fly” podcast, per the Associated Press.

The quarterback, who is 40 years old, stated that one of the hardest moments of his career was when his Achilles snapped during a game against the Buffalo Bills.

“During the offseason, I had this amazing experience of being in a new city and town, with new teammates, and in a new organization. I even had an owner for the first time,” said Rodgers. “This experience allowed me to rekindle my love for the game that first captivated me at the age of 5. It was simply beautiful, special, profound, and enriching. A truly incredible and delightful experience.”

Then came one of the most devastating nights of my life, a night where I only played four plays. Talk about a blow to my ego.

The pessimism regarding the injury didn’t persist. Rodgers started investigating how Kobe Bryant dealt with a similar injury during his tenure in Los Angeles. That’s when his worries about this being the end of his career began to diminish.

Rodgers had aimed for a return in 2023, a comeback timeline that would have been extraordinary considering his injury and age. However, this possibility was quashed when the Jets were disqualified from the postseason. Nevertheless, Rodgers’ determination to attempt a comeback displayed that he still possesses the mindset to continue his football career into his 40s.

“Playing again is something I’m really looking forward to,” said Rodgers. “I absolutely adore the game. My passion for it was reignited, only to have it abruptly ended after just four plays. I really miss being on the field and I love the competition…”

My sanctuary lies within the game of football. It’s the space where I sense full command over my athletic prowess. Last year, I painfully missed this feeling. The absence left a void in my heart. Now, I eagerly anticipate rejoining the field once more, ready to engage in friendly combat alongside my team.

The Jets are relying on the former 4-time MVP to return to form after strengthening the team this offseason.