Aaron Rodgers admits thinking “this is it” after tearing his Achilles in season-opener with the Jets

Aaron Rodgers opened up about his ACL injury (Via Imago/AtoZ Sports)

Not that sustaining a serious season-ending injury at the age of 40 isn’t bad enough, Aaron Rodgers was rushed through the entire recovery process due to his team’s deteriorating performances. Not to mention it was his first season with the New York Jets, who had to dump the entire offense on the shoulders of the quarterback.

Despite the excessive pressure, Rodgers remained positive for his return. When he started throwing just two months after the injury, many including doctors raised their concerns believing it was perilous, not to say shocking things to do after tearing his ACL.

But it all takes place after the quarterback faces his moment of weakness right after the injury when he thought it was the end of his career. During a recent appearance on the I Can Fly podcast, the Jets quarterback opened up about his initial response to his “heartbreaking” injury after just one snap into the season.

I was really thinking, 'This is it. You don't come back from this injury.'

Aaron Rodgers said

Rodgers had previously shared being ‘frustrated’ after suffering the injury in his debut season with the Jets. His recovery process, as well, has been a roller coaster of emotion, which he also talked about in this interview while also being choked up at one point.

How the Jets rekindled Aaron Rodgers’ love for football?

During the two-hour interview podcast, Rodgers also expressed his gratitude towards the Jets, as, after 18 seasons playing with the Green Bay Packers, his trade to the Jets rekindled his love for football. He also called his first season with them, the best moment of his career.

The former NFL MVP recalled the pregame introductions of the 2023 season, where he ran holding the American flag, saying it was one of the “highest highs” of his football career.
Aaron RodgersAaron Rodgers Achilles injury (Via NBC News)

I had this incredible offseason experience in a new city, a new town, with new teammates, a new organization, an owner for the first time, and really falling back in love with the game that I first fell in love with when I was 5 years old.

Aaron Rodgers added

However,  just a few minutes after that wholesome moment, Rodgers’ emotions came crashing down as he was carried off the field on the cart. After a season of struggle, the star quarterback is now recovered and all set to stage a stunning comeback in 2024.