Jets QB Aaron Rodgers expands on mandatory minicamp controversy

In an interview with "Pardon My Take" released earlier this week, New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers insisted it was no big deal he missed the club's two-day mandatory minicamp last month because of "a pre-planned trip to Egypt."

Rodgers again addressed the matter while speaking with reporters on Wednesday.

"Back in some of the doldrums of the rehab, I thought it'd be fun to put together a trip with some friends," Rodgers explained, as shared by Cody Benjamin of CBS Sports. "I had a great talk with [Jets head coach Robert Saleh]. Obviously, he wanted me to be there [for minicamp]. I knew the consequences if I wasn't gonna be there. The reaction is what it is."

The Jets reportedly were able to fine Rodgers up to $50,861 per the terms of the collective bargaining agreement because he skipped the mandatory minicamp sessions as an unexcused absence. He hinted on Wednesday that his fine "might've been a little more" than $50,000.

The future Hall of Famer who suffered a campaign-ending torn Achilles on the Jets' fourth offensive snap of the 2023 regular-season opener seemingly has no regrets about his minicamp decision.

"I made it a point to be at every [organized team activity], I was at the physical day as a part of the minicamp ... [and I] had talks with all my teammates about it," Rodgers said. "I think they all understood it was more of an issue outside the building than it was inside the building. ... Robert and I are great. ... I'm an adult. I knew what I was getting into. I knew the fine that was coming. I also knew how much I wanted to be in Egypt. I wish there hadn't been a conflict schedule-wise, but it was what it was."

Whispers continue to suggest that Rodgers, Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas could get "canned" next offseason should the Jets miss the playoffs for a 14th consecutive year. Rodgers, who turns 41 years old this coming December, noted he is targeting a trip to Super Bowl LIX.

"It has to be the goal," Rodgers added during his comments, per Bobby Kownack of the NFL's website. "The beauty is, every single year there's eight to 12 teams, maybe -- probably less -- but eight to 12 teams that can actually do it, and we're one of those eight to 12."

As of Wednesday afternoon, DraftKings Sportsbook had the Jets tied for sixth among the betting favorites at +1100 odds to represent the AFC in the upcoming Super Bowl. To complete such as journey, Gang Green will need Rodgers to give the club much more than a handful of snaps.