Aaron Rodgers, Robert Saleh Clear the Air after Misinterpreted Sideline Interaction

New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers and head coach Robert Saleh have clarified an interaction during Thursday night's win over the New England Patriots that sparked speculation of tension.

New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers and head coach Robert Saleh have put to rest any rumors of tension between them after a sideline interaction during Thursday night's win over the New England Patriots raised eyebrows.

In the first half of the game, Rodgers appeared to reject Saleh's embrace on the sideline, leading some to speculate that the four-time league MVP was expressing frustration or dissatisfaction. However, both Rodgers and Saleh have since explained the interaction, saying it was simply a reminder to focus on the team's goal of maintaining a two-score lead.

Aaron Rodgers, Robert Saleh Clear the Air after Misinterpreted Sideline Interaction

"Part of the things that we've been talking about is to just get the defense a two-score lead," Saleh said after the game. "And it was a two-score lead, so I guess he just wanted to see something on defense. He just reminded me that we got a two-score lead."

Rodgers confirmed Saleh's account, saying he wanted to remind his coach that they had achieved their desired lead early in the game.

Aaron Rodgers, Robert Saleh Clear the Air after Misinterpreted Sideline Interaction

"Oh, awkward? No, it wasn't awkward at all," Rodgers said of the interaction. "He's not a big hugger usually. So, I didn't know he was going for the hug. He likes to do the two-hand chest push as well. But he talks a lot about two-score leads. So I kind of just gave him a push and said 'two-score lead.' That's what happened."

The Jets' victory over their AFC East rivals was a significant moment for the team, which snapped an eight-game home losing streak against the Patriots. The team also played on a short week after defeating the Tennessee Titans on the road on Sunday.

Aaron Rodgers, Robert Saleh Clear the Air after Misinterpreted Sideline Interaction

Rodgers, who suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in his Jets debut last season, made a successful return to MetLife Stadium, throwing for 281 yards and two touchdowns. The Jets' defense also had a strong performance, holding the Patriots to just three points.

The Jets will have a mini-bye before hosting the Denver Broncos on Sept. 29.