Aaron Rodgers' Minicamp Absence: Jets Insider and Teammate React

New York Jets insider Connor Hughes explains that the team was aware of Aaron Rodgers' plans to miss minicamp, while teammate Sauce Gardner defends the quarterback's decision.

Aaron Rodgers' absence from the New York Jets' mandatory minicamp this week has drawn mixed reactions. While some critics have questioned the veteran quarterback's commitment to the team, Rodgers has received support from both an insider and a teammate.

Jets insider Connor Hughes revealed that the team has been aware of Rodgers' plans to miss minicamp since the dates were released. The quarterback had previously informed the organization of a scheduling conflict.

Aaron Rodgers' Minicamp Absence: Jets Insider and Teammate React

"Aaron and I spoke before OTAs started," Jets head coach Robert Saleh said. "He's been very good in communication. He's been here the entire time. It's inexcused, but he had an event that was very important to him, which he communicated."

Rodgers' absence is considered unexcused under the terms of the NFL's collective bargaining agreement, meaning he could face fines.

Aaron Rodgers' Minicamp Absence: Jets Insider and Teammate React

However, Jets defensive back Sauce Gardner has defended his quarterback's decision.

"Are y’all really making a big deal because a 15+ year HOF QB missed 2 days of practice after being with the team all throughout Phase 1, 2, & 3 of OTA’s?? GG’s," Gardner wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Aaron Rodgers' Minicamp Absence: Jets Insider and Teammate React

Rodgers did participate in the Jets' voluntary offseason workouts prior to this week's minicamp, including organized team activities (OTAs) in late May and early June.

Veteran NFL quarterback Chase Daniel characterized Rodgers' absence as "expensive."

"Wait until you hear where Aaron Rodgers is…instead of with his teammates…. That’s an expensive absence," Daniel wrote on X.

Gardner has previously praised Rodgers' leadership abilities.

"When he walks into the room, he’s going to shake the room every time," Gardner said last September. "He’s a natural leader. Great guy to be around. He changed the organization in a lot of ways, for sure."

In addition to Rodgers, the Jets are also missing two-time Pro Bowl pass rusher Haason Reddick, who is sitting out due to a contract dispute.

Saleh expressed confidence that Reddick would be ready for training camp, which begins on July 24.

"Spoke to him over the weekend. I appreciate the dialogue. He's in a really good place mentally, working his tail off like we already know, but he's choosing to sit out this one. Inexcused," Saleh said.

"I’m not concerned about Haason Reddick. I understand everything that’s happening, but at the same time, I know that when it comes time to play football, he’s gonna be ready to play football."

The Jets will hope to have both Rodgers and Reddick ready to contribute when the regular season begins on September 10.