Saleh Considering Playing Jets QB Rodgers vs. Giants

In what may have been the biggest buzzkill in league history, New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers took the field for a single pass attempt last season before falling to the ground with a torn Achilles. New York’s fate fell with him, leaving an offseason worth of excitement and over a decade of desperation with nowhere to sit.

Now, Rodgers is back; healthy and a year older, the path to a Super Bowl returned when the Hall of Famer did.

Subsequently, confidence is at an all-time high, but so is paranoia.

Will the Jets let Rodgers play in the preseason?

Head coach Robert Saleh let Rodgers play in the final preseason game against the New York Giants in 2023. He played well, trash talking a veteran defender on his way to an efficient touchdown drive.

It was a nice taste of what the New York faithful felt was yet to come. This time around, though, few want to see Rodgers take the field in the preseason. Saleh talked about the chances of seeing Rodgers in an exhibition setting on Thursday.

“We haven’t had final decisions yet at all with regards to the third game,” Saleh said, via SNY . “You guys know me, the third game is usually when we like to play our guys and depending on how today went, how Saturday goes, and next week’s work with the Panthers and the following week with the Giants, I’ll make that decision.”

On whether or not that meant there’s a chance he lets Rodgers play, Saleh was brief, but seemingly open-minded.

“Yeah.”

Fans shouldn’t mistake Saleh’s comments or the potential willingness to let him play in the preseason as irresponsible. The Jets are prioritizing Rodgers’ health and making sure ample precautions are taken.

Just this week, Saleh made the call to not let Rodgers practice against the Washington Commanders in the rain.

Related: Bears Rookie Caleb Williams Ranks Jets' Aaron Rodgers No. 1 QB in NFL

“He pushed back,” Saleh said . “He pushed back, he wanted to go, but in the grand scheme of things we’re trying to keep forward thinking with regards to Week 1 and we’ve got a long way for that. And we’ll have other opportunities coming up with Carolina and the Giants.”

If it’s raining on Aug. 24, when New York takes on its stadium-sharing rival, it’s safe to assume Rodgers probably won’t be participating. If not, Saleh’s proclivity for full participation in the dress rehearsal could give fans an anxiety-inducing preview for what is shaping up to be an exciting season.