NFL

‘Strange’: Superstar’s ‘awkward’ interaction with coach

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3 hours ago

September 20, 2024

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‘Strange’: Superstar’s ‘awkward’ interaction with coach

Aaron Rodgers was sublime in his first match in New York since his devastating injury in the opening minutes of last year’s opener, leading the New York Jets to 24-3 victory over New England.

The 40-year-old four-time MVP made his first home start since leaving his debut with the Jets with a torn Achilles tendon just over a year ago.

And his play was exactly what New York fans were expecting but his interaction with Jets coach Robert Saleh was not.

As the Jets celebrated their second touchdown, putting them up 14-3 against their AFC East rivals, head coach Saleh went in for what seemed like a routine congratulatory hug.

But Rodgers, appeared to push Saleh away, muttering something that left fans and lip-readers scrambling for answers.

Rodgers rejects the hug. Amazon Prime

Fans were left scratching their heads. Amazon Prime

Aaron Rodgers glares at Saleh as he walks away. Amazon Prime

Rodgers was the last Jets player introduced to the crowd — “And, your quarterback …,” blared the public address announcer — before the game against New England and the fans, many wearing green and white No.8 jerseys, went into a frenzy. Fireworks lit up the night sky and the LED wristbands given to the fans in attendance made the stands glow in a sea of green light.

And he delivered some excitement in the first half, helping the Jets to a 14-3 lead.

Rodgers was 15 of 20 for 170 yards and a touchdown to Allen Lazard, who raced from the end zone right to his quarterback to give him the ball and help Rodgers celebrate his first TD pass at home with the Jets.

The last time Rodgers jogged onto the field to play at MetLife Stadium, he emerged from the tunnel carrying an American flag on September 11, 2023, the 22nd anniversary of the terrorist attacks. The crowd roared while the flag fluttered behind him.

Rodgers called it one of the most special moments of his playing career.

Minutes later, the excitement and jubilation were replaced by the shocking sight of the quarterback struggling to get up and off the field. Rodgers had torn his left Achilles tendon on the fourth snap of his Jets debut.

But those thoughts were well behind the Rodgers and the Jets as they continued their dominance in the second half without giving up a touchdown to win 24-3.