Aaron Rodgers Returns to the Field After Achilles Tear, Reflects on Journey

After a year-long recovery from a season-ending Achilles tear, Aaron Rodgers made his second start for the New York Jets on Monday night. Despite the team's loss to the San Francisco 49ers, Rodgers expressed gratitude for his return and confidence in his body's recovery.

On Monday night, the football world witnessed the remarkable return of Aaron Rodgers to the field as the starting quarterback for the New York Jets. It marked his second start in two seasons after suffering a season-ending Achilles tear during the 2023 season opener against the Buffalo Bills.

The 40-year-old veteran, who has won four NFL MVP awards, stepped back onto the field against the San Francisco 49ers almost a year to the day after his injury. Despite the team's 32-19 loss, Rodgers displayed resilience and confidence in his post-game interview on "The Pat McAfee Show."

Aaron Rodgers Returns to the Field After Achilles Tear, Reflects on Journey

"Yeah, my body held up," he said. "I feel like I'm gonna keep on getting more comfortable out there. Meaning, the more I play, the more potential for scrambles could happen with each game, where I get even more confident and really let loose. But I feel 100% [confident]. It's just maybe I can do a little bit more every single week."

Prior to the game, Rodgers reflected on his journey to recovery, acknowledging the challenges and emotions that came with it.

Aaron Rodgers Returns to the Field After Achilles Tear, Reflects on Journey

"It's such a long road. I thought about all the different things that happened over the last year," he said. "Tomorrow is a year since the injury. A lot's changed in my life in the last year. So, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude."

"Just a lot of things were hitting me — my 20th season, all the rehab that happened, all the ups and downs of the last year."

Aaron Rodgers Returns to the Field After Achilles Tear, Reflects on Journey

Despite the loss, Rodgers had a solid performance on the field. He threw for 167 yards and connected with former Green Bay Packers teammate Allen Lazard for a touchdown. He also threw an interception in the third quarter.

When asked about his Achilles, Rodgers expressed confidence in its recovery. "I actually felt good, and I only took two shots," he said. "I took a hit from an interior guy. I got sacked one time — that was it. I felt like the pass protection was very nice all night, and I feel like I’m gonna keep getting more comfortable out there."

The Jets will face the Tennessee Titans on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET, providing Rodgers with an opportunity to continue his recovery and build on his performance against the 49ers.