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11 months ago
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New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers is expected to be cleared to play ahead of next week's game against the Washington Commanders on Christmas Eve, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Rodgers tore his right Achillies back in Week 1 only four plays into his Jets debut and has been working to get cleared to comeback before the end of the season.
It should be noted that just because Rodgers is cleared medically it does not guarantee he will take the field against the Commanders or at any point this season.
Rodgers was recently reported to have increased his workload in practice in an effort to gain clearance before the Christmas Eve game.
The Jets have until Wednesday to officially activate Rodgers from the injured reserve or he will be forced to sit out the rest of the season.
New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers is expected to be medially cleared to play next week
Rodgers suffered a torn left Achilles only four plays into his New York Jets debut Week 1
STANDARD ACHILLES RECOVERY PROCESS POST-SUGERY
Two weeks post-surgery: No weight bearing, use of crutches
Four to six weeks: Gentle motion exercises once stitches are removed, transitioned to a walking boot
Six to eight weeks: Walking in the boot with light pressure, increased motion exercises
Eight to 12/16 weeks: General physical therapy to maintain strength and motion
Four to six months: Sport-specific rehab
Six to 12 months: Increasing amount of activity, depending on the sport
Nine to 12 months: Possibility they are able to play at a high level
'He looks normal to me,' Jets head coach Robert Saleh of Rodgers earlier in the week.
'It's unbelievable. Credit to him, especially in this day and age where a hangnail can affect a game week, but this dude is grinding to try to get himself back. It just shows how much he cares. I have an appreciation for him.'
Reports emerged slightly after Rodgers underwent surgery on the injured Achilles stating that he may even be targeting an improbable return in the playoffs after undergoing a relatively new process that placed an internal brace in his ankle known as a 'speed bridge.'
The procedure was performed by renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. Neal ElAttrache who also operated on Kobe Bryant's torn Achilles in 2013 and saw the legendary Laker return to the court in eight months.
Although no specific timetables or guarantees were given for Rodgers' possible return to the field, it appears the groundbreaking surgery may have accomplished it's goal of helping the 40-year-old QB return to the field much quicker than anticipated.
Throughout Rodgers recovery process it has been pointed out numerous times that him stepping foot on the field would not only require the Jets to still be in playoff contention, but also that he had full movement and ability to protect himself.
Rodgers has looked impressive during the week in practice and was even reported to have made a one-handed interception while acting as a member of the scout team defense but is still has yet to be forced to elude pass rushers, escape a collapsing pocket, and other strenuous movements that may occur in a real game.
The possibility of Rodgers being cleared will also increase the pressure on Gang Green to ensure that they pull off an upset win on the road against the Miami Dolphins this week if the are to keep even the smallest chance at the playoffs alive due to their 5-8 record.
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