Despite suffering a torn Achilles just four plays into the 2023 season, New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers is showing a determined spirit and hasn’t given up on the season entirely. According to NFL Media, Rodgers is setting his sights on a potential mid-January return, should the Jets secure a spot in the postseason.

Melissa Stark, a sideline reporter for NBC Sports, shed more light on Rodgers’ intense recovery regimen before the Jets’ matchup with the Kansas City Chiefs on “Sunday Night Football.” She revealed that the four-time NFL MVP is dedicating “over five hours a day” to his rehabilitation efforts, all with the aim of making a comeback during the current season.

Rodgers recently underwent an innovative surgery to expedite his recovery process. During an interview with Pat McAfee, Rodgers refrained from making any definitive statements about his return timeline. However, when prodded by former teammate A.J. Hawk about the possibility of returning this season, Rodgers responded with a reference to Kevin Garnett’s famous quote: “I think as Kevin Garnett said, ‘Anything is possible.'”

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Aaron Rodgers made his first public appearance since suffering a left Achilles tendon tear just four plays into his debut with the New York Jets on September 11. He arrived at MetLife Stadium for the Jets’ game against the Kansas City Chiefs on crutches, greeted by his teammates, coaches, and members of both teams.

Arriving at the stadium in a golf cart and leaning on crutches, Rodgers took the time to interact with those on the sideline. As players from the Jets and Chiefs warmed up, he sat on a bench, dressed in a white, long-sleeved T-shirt and black shorts, wearing sunglasses. During this time, he had a conversation with NBC’s Mike Tirico before rising to his feet and sharing hugs with some of his Jets teammates. Despite needing crutches for mobility, Rodgers was able to stand unassisted and even took a few steps along the sideline.

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Rodgers also had conversations with Jets defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, and Chiefs star tight end Travis Kelce, during which they shared some moments of laughter. Later on, Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes approached Rodgers, giving him a hug, and the two had a brief conversation.