Jets head coach Robert Saleh makes Aaron Rodgers decision with huge implications

NEW York Jets head coach Robert Saleh has made a decision regarding Aaron Rodger’s status for their preseason finale.

Saleh revealed in a press conference on Thursday that the 40-year-old quarterback will be inactive when they take on the New York Giants on Saturday.

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Former UFL star Adrian Martinez will play the first half against the Giants with undrafted rookie Andrew Peasley set to take over for the remainder of the game.

In two games with the Jets this preseason, Martinez has thrown for 171 yards, no touchdowns, and one interception.

Peasley has thrown for 106 yards on 13 completions, with one score and no picks.

On Tuesday, Rodgers was asked if he had a preference between suiting up or sitting out against the Giants, to which he admitted he was indifferent.

“I feel good about where I’m at with my body and what I’ve put together,” he added.

As such, Rodgers’ first game since he suffered a brutal Achilles tear in their 2023 season opener, will come in Week 1 against the San Francisco 49ers in Santa Clara.

Rodgers lasted just four snaps in his Jets debut on September 11, 2023, before going down in their 26-16 win against the Buffalo Bills.

But despite his lack of preseason snaps, Saleh was optimistic about his star quarterback’s outlook ahead of the season opener.

“His arm is still 30 and he’s got plenty of mobility, he showed that in Carolina getting out of the pocket several times – he does that in practice,” Saleh said, recalling their recent joint practice against the Panthers.

“I think he is absolutely ready to go.”

Once Rodgers does take to the field, he’ll be doing so protected by a new look offensive line.

Looking to keep Rodgers upright, the Jets brought in Tyron Smith, Morgan Moses, and John Simpson this offseason – all of whom are projected to start.

They also used their first-round draft pick on tackle Olu Fashanu.

The Jets’ front office also added to Rodgers’ weapons arsenal, bringing in wideout Mike Williams, and drafting fellow receiver Malachi Corley and running backs Braelon Allen and Isaiah Davis.

Their already-stacked defense will also feature some new faces this season.

Defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw was brought in along with rookie corner Qwan’tez Stiggers and safety Jaylen Key.

Two-time Pro Bowl linebacker Haason Reddick was acquired in a trade, however, his desire for a new contract has led him to hold out of the entirety of training camp.

In a further twist to the already strange turn of events, without having ever suited up for the Jets, Reddick recently requested a trade.

Unfortunately for him, general manager Joe Douglas has already shut down this request.

“We have informed Haason that we will not trade him, that he is expected to be here with his teammates, and that he will continue to be fined per the CBA if he does not report,” he said, per NFL.com.

“Since the trade discussions back in March we have been clear, direct and consistent with our position.

“Our focus will remain on the guys we have here as we prepare for the regular season.”

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