New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers has been discussing a potential return to the team for weeks as he has been recovering from a torn Achilles tendon suffered in Week 1 against the Buffalo Bills. However, TMZ is reporting a massive update on the future Pro Football Hall of Famer’s status for the remainder of the season.
According to their report, Aaron Rodgers is expected to be medically cleared for the New York Jets for the Christmas Eve game against the Cleveland Browns. If he were to return for the 12/24 clash, it would be just 104 days since suffering the injury just four offensive snaps into the 2023 season.
The Jets are still technically alive for a Wild Card berth as they are 5-8 this season. The New York Post gives them an 11 percent chance of making one of the three AFC Wild Card spots if they were to win the remaining four games on the schedule and be 9-8. With the AFC as bunched up as it is and head-to-head victories over the Denver Broncos, Cleveland Browns (if they win on Christmas Eve) and Houston Texans, they would have a chance with Aaron Rodgers returning.
What is the remaining schedule for the New York Jets look like?
Below is the Jets remaining four games on the schedule. If Rodgers were to return on Christmas Eve against the Commanders, it makes it a lot more winnable.
- Week 15: at Miami Dolphins
- Week 16: vs Washington Commanders
- Week 17: at Cleveland Browns
- Week 18: at New England Patriots
Can the Jets win out and make the playoffs with Aaron Rodgers?
If Sunday was any indication of how the Jets can do, they have a chance of defeating the Miami Dolphins. The look-ahead spread has the Jets as a massive 12-point underdog on the road but their offense completely dominated the Houston Texans. This Dolphins team plays on Monday Night Football and their defense has struggled this season.
The Jets need to win against the Dolphins to have a shot but it will be difficult. They lost 34-13 on Black Friday but the Jets had Tim Boyle and Trevor Siemian under center. If they find a way to pull off the massive upset against the Dolphins, 9-8 is definitely on the table, even with a limited Rodgers throwing the football.
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