Rogers looks for greatness from return season

Rich Cimini is an ESPN Staff Writer covering both the New York Jets and NFL for ESPN. Since he first covered them 30 years ago he joined ESPN, where he now hosts their Flight Deck podcast as well. He previously served as a beat writer for the New York Daily News and graduated from Syracuse University. Follow Rich Cimini on Twitter as @RichCimini for updates. FLORHAM PARK, New Jersey — Just days from starting his 20th NFL season with the New York Jets, quarterback Aaron Rodgers was so relaxed on Thursday he even joked about last season’s Achilles injury that required surgery. “When I take the field,” Rodgers declared prior to practice, “I expect greatness because that is my standard of play and performance. So this year will be no different!” Rodgers, 40 and one of the oldest NFL players, will face San Francisco 49ers on Monday evening two days shy of one year since suffering an Achilles tear during game four – effectively derailng New Jersey Jets season in its entirety.” “After the fourth [snap], there may be some smiles.” Aaron Rodgers spoke eagerly of Monday night.Editor’s Pick2 Related Roldgers hadn’t played full games since 2022 with Green Bay Packers when their season came to a close. He skipped preseason play as well, taking approximately 800 practice reps at training camp instead. Even with all his achievements such as four MVP awards and one Super Bowl championship under his belt, Rodgers believes there’s more for him to prove in 2017. “I have always played around with something on my shoulder,” he explained, adding, “you may need to manufacture things from time to time in order to prove my point, which comes down to who would need convincing – myself or others? At this stage.” “The New York Jets, who enter this season with Super Bowl dreams in mind, will rely heavily on Rodgers — yet again. Coach Robert Saleh reported: “He looks fantastic both physically and mentally – as many have witnessed by being there every day!” “You guys know exactly how great his appearance has been….”…” “Rodgers has done this job long enough that his professionalism speaks for itself; I trust he’ll do just fine. While his throwing game was impressive during training camp, what caught teammates’ eyes most was his mobility around the pocket.” There appear to be no long-term side effects from Aaron Rodgers’ Achilles injury; though, he still has yet to face an active pass rusher. Rodgers has stated his belief that the Jets, having gone 7-10 over two seasons, possess Super Bowl potential; “Of course!” said Rodgers about their improved offensive line. He lauded the maturity of the locker room, noting its influence in helping navigate adversity. “I have played with something on my shoulder since childhood; sometimes you need to create things yourself; however, now is not the time for proofing as my own actions speak volumes for themselves,” said Davis.

Aaron Rodgers Aaron Rodgers stated: “We can’t ride these waves of emotion or frustration or outside narratives or any of these things,” adding, “we need to keep this thing very tight; there can’t be any leaks or people abandoning ship. Realize this will be a long season.” He made similar statements at the conclusion of last season, saying the team must learn how to eliminate distractions and “flush the B.S.” Rodgers was met with criticism when his name made headlines as an apparent vice presidential contender, then for making an unexcused trip to Egypt during a mandatory minicamp. Since missing training camp, his focus has remained football according to coaches and teammates. “[I’m in] good mind space,” Rodgers stated. “This year has been unforgettable in terms of difficulty but also accomplishment.” So, the Anthem provides an important opportunity to pause, collect your thoughts, and express our thanks to the universe for giving me this privilege of standing on a field or pad – I can’t wait for that! “While it appears the Jets may still miss Pro Bowl edge rusher Haason Reddick due to his extended holdout, Reddick may end up missing some significant time during 2018. Reddick has not participated in team activities since joining on March 29, when traded from Philadelphia Eagles, demanding a new contract. Saleh did not rule Reddick out for Monday night’s matchup though it would seem feasible as their opponent just had two players show up [Trent Williams and Brandon Aiyuk]. Saleh believes veteran players who understand how things need to be done properly will get themselves ready in good time before playing time arrives.