Rodgers went down in the first quarter of the season opener against the Buffalo Bills.

Aaron Rodgers (via Imago)

Aaron Rodgers has endured the roughest year of his NFL career in the 2023-24 season. Rodgers felt the mental pressure of making a speedy recovery and attempting to return to play in the same season. Ultimately, that did not happen, but this journey was fruitful for the quarterback.

Recently, Rodgers revealed the evolution of his mindset over the year on the icanflypod. The quarterback for the New York Jets revealed his season started off on an optimistic note. Moreover, he said it held a special place in his heart.

I have this incredible offseason experience in a new city, in a new town, with new teammates, new organization, an owner for the first time, and really falling back in love with the game...it was absolutely beautiful, special, and deep, and rich, and yummy, and just incredible.

Aaron Rodgers via icanflypod

Aaron Rodgers who played in Green Bay was one who looked defeated and distraught. He looked like a helpless man once Davante Adams departed the team. Despite his best efforts, his team kept losing. Moreover, the lack of post-season success also added to the pressure.

Rodgers seemed like he no longer loved the game of football. But things took a turn for the positive with his trade to the Jets. He began to fall in love with the game all over again. The energy and love he received from fans made him feel welcome.

As such, Rodgers aims to win a Super Bowl for the Jets. However, the injury setback became a mentally taxing episode for him.

Aaron Rodgers has had a mentally taxing year despite having sat out for the entire season

The stage was set for the Jets to win the biggest prize. They had an outstanding QB at their helm with good receivers, a good rushing attack, and a potentially top 3 defense in the NFL. All eyes were on September 11, the opening night for the Jets when they would take on the Buffalo Bills.

The night got off to a great start. Aaron Rodgers ran out of the tunnel with the American flag held high in MetLife Stadium, which elevated the stadium with energy.

The night was meant to commemorate the lives lost in the tragic 9/11 incident. However, what ensued was another heartbreak for the residents of New York.

 
Aaron Rodgers (Image via IMAGO)
Aaron Rodgers went down with an Achilles injury barely five minutes into the game. The quarterback described the moment as a heartbreak and wondered if his career had ended. However, once he underwent surgery and began rehab, things began to look up.

So much changed in my life in the last 6 months that would not have happened had I not been carted off that field on September 11.... grateful for the many lessons & once again the ego death, & the phoenix rising from the ashes, a better version of myself. 

Aaron Rodgers via icanflypod

Maybe Rodgers is referring to the fact that he did not have to play behind the team’s broken offensive line owing to the injury because he would have taken a lot of hits for the rest of the year.

The quarterback went on to make one of the fastest recoveries from an Achilles injury. He was up on his feet and off crutches within a matter of weeks, in just three months, he was back practicing his throws and getting back into football practice.

Many hope for Rodgers to make a glorious comeback this season. Only time will tell if he brings the Jets back to a Super Bowl.