As we reported, the New York Jets’ promising season with all-time great quarterback Aaron Rodgers calling the signals came to an abrupt halt as he tore his Achilles tendon in only his fourth play of the game and will miss the rest of the season.
Fans were hopeful that the addition of Rodgers might mean the team would make its first appearance at the Super Bowl since 1969. But that is not to be this year, and the team has handed the reins over to backup Zach Wilson.
Rodgers issued his first public statement Wednesday about his misfortune, posting to Instagram that although he was heartbroken, “the night is darkest before the dawn.”
Thank you to every person that has reached out, called, texted, DM’d, connected through a friend, etc. It has meant a ton to me, and I’ll try and get back to all of you soon 🥹❤️
I’m completely heartbroken and moving through all of the emotions, but deeply touched and humbled by the support and love. 💔 Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers as I begin the healing process today. 🙏 ♾️ ❤️
The night is darkest before the dawn. And I shall rise yet again.
Proud of my guys, 1-0 🛩️ #
I personally have always “hated” Rodgers—not because he’s a bad person, but because he spent most of his career with the evil Green Bay Packers, who have made a punching bag out of my Chicago Bears these last many years. But I’ve been watching this season’s "Hard Knocks" on HBO, which features the Jets and have been impressed by his work ethic, camaraderie with his teammates, and ridiculous talent.
I liked him even more after this epic moment before the game—on September 11, no less:
Aaron Rodgers runs out to the field with the American Flag.
— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) September 12, 2023
Chills. pic.twitter.com/T4jeHLucAK
Ironically, Colin Kaepernick's agent reportedly reached out to the Jets after Rodger's injury in the hopes that the controversial quarterback could possibly resurrect his career in the Big Apple. You can bet that the angry activist would not have come running out on the field with the U.S. flag.
The Jets said, "Thanks, but no thanks," and are not pursuing that option.
Although the excitement quickly faded at MetLife Stadium after Rodgers was carted off the field, the Jets still managed an unexpected and exciting overtime win against the talented Buffalo Bills.
Watch the game-winning touchdown in overtime:
Bob Wischusen (@espnbob) with his usual radio play-by-play brilliance on @ESPNNY98_7FM on Xavier Gipson’s 65-yard game-winning punt return touchdown in overtime as the Jets beat the Bills.
— Jack Benjamin (@JackBenjaminPxP) September 12, 2023
Tremendous stuff from one of the very best in the business🔥
pic.twitter.com/lKa69H0QMi
"Time waits for no one, and he won't wait for me," sang Mick Jagger and the Rolling Stones in 1974 in an underappreciated classic. It won't wait for Aaron Rodgers, either. We knew the end of his playing days was not far in the future, and yet, I hope this is not the way his terrific career comes to a close.
Join the conversation as a VIP Member