New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) on the field before the game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium. Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Jets QB Aaron Rodgers throws pregame vs. Giants

By Clark Dalton | Last updated 10/29/23

Can New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers make an unprecedented recovery from an Achilles injury?

Even though he tore his left Achilles in Week 1, the 39-year-old was dropping back and throwing passes before the Jets Week 8 matchup against the New York Giants. He also recently threw pregame in Week 6.

Aaron Rodgers is dropping back in warmups off his Achilles injury pic.twitter.com/MwYOLge7cI
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) October 29, 2023

Typically, an Achilles tear is a season-ending injury, and it takes six to nine months to recover from. Yet Rodgers underwent an innovative surgery in September and aims to return before the playoffs, per NFL Network insiders Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport. Clearly, he's making excellent progress.

However, the four-time MVP faces several challenges. On Tuesday, he told ESPN personality Pat McAfee, "I'm not walking without a limp yet."

Still, it's remarkable Rodgers is already throwing passes and remains determined to return to the field this season. Meanwhile, the Jets (3-3) just need to stay in playoff contention. The New York Times simulator gives them a 26 percent chance to make the postseason.

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