Jets QB Aaron Rodgers feeling ‘really good’ coming off torn Achilles, embraces pressure entering 2024

Rodgers denied that he was more hungry now than a year ago, saying, “I was pretty damn hungry last year,” but added that he was in a good place regardless.

“I’m enjoying this time,” he said. “It’s been a very interesting eight, nine months. A lot of grinding to get back, so I’m trying to enjoy this time that comes with it, get to know my guys and look for ways to help us get better.”

Rodgers also said he had “a lot of motivation” and that he “love(s) the game,” which is part of why he didn’t consider an offseason career change despite receiving an unusual job offer. Presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. reportedly extended an offer to Rodgers to be his running mate on the November ticket.

Why did Rodgers pass? Football.

“There were really two options: Retire and be his VP or keep playing,” Rodgers said. “I wanted to keep playing.”

The Jets are thankful for that. They will get another chance to see if their 2023 masterplan can finally work in 2024, even if it could be their last shot with Rodgers.

But don’t expect any more off-field noise from Rodgers as the season ramps up.

“I respect those opinions, but those are offseason things,” he said when asked about potential distractions. “And those are real opportunities. Mostly podcasts was friends of mine, and the Bobby thing was a real thing. How it got out there, I don’t know — it wasn’t from me. Once the season starts, it’s all about football.”