Aaron Rodgers injury update: Jets QB seen throwing passes without crutches less than 5 weeks after surgery

Joe Rivera

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Aaron Rodgers injury update: Jets QB seen throwing passes without crutches less than 5 weeks after surgery image

The power of ayahuasca compels you.

Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers is just over a month removed from tearing his Achilles tendon in Week 1 vs. the Bills, but he's been adamant that maybe, probably, potentially, his season isn't over.

Well, it would be for mere mortals, but Rodgers is seemingly anything but.

Prior to the Jets' Week 6 matchup vs. the Eagles, the quarterback was seen on the field without crutches, throwing passes, as he continues his "aggressive" rehab.

MORE: How long is Aaron Rodgers out?

It's not the first time that Rodgers has been seen throwing passes prior to a Jets game, but it is the first time he's done it without crutches. Still, there's been no official word as to whether or not Rodgers has been cleared for football activities or just how far along in the process he is.

Rodgers has maintained that he's pushing the limits of his rehab and that he is keeping the door open for a 2023 return, either in the playoffs or sooner. Rodgers underwent a cutting edge surgery to repair the Achilles, potentially making good on that prognostication.

“Give me the doubts, give me the doubts, give me the timetables, give me all the things that you think can should or will happen because all I need is that 1 little extra percent of inspiration. That’s all I need," Rodgers said on "The Pat McAfee Show" following his injury. "Give me your doubts, give me your prognostications and then watch what I do.”

MORE: Doctor outlines Aaron Rodgers' recovery from torn Achilles

Well, the football world is watching, and Rodgers seems to be making good on his promise.

When did Aaron Rodgers have surgery?

Rodgers underwent surgery on Sept. 14 to repair his torn Achilles tendon, performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache in Los Angeles. 

Is Aaron Rodgers playing today?

While the sight of Rodgers throwing passes might be a welcome one for Jets fans, the quarterback is still a ways away from making his return in any official capacity.

Rodgers has kept the door open for a potential 2023 playoffs return, but a lot of things will have to break Rodgers' and the Jets' way: First, the Jets will have to continue to tread water until Rodgers is ready to make a comeback, and maybe guarantee themselves a playoff berth 

Rodgers is just 32 days removed from surgery, but a return may be on the horizon if Sunday's guest appearance was any indication.

Joe Rivera

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Joe Rivera is in his seventh year with The Sporting News, handling NFL, MLB and some things pro wrestling. A proud-ish Rutgers University graduate, Rivera combines a new-school flair with an old-school soul. He loves dingers, wrestling, comic books, movies, music and really bad puns. He is also a card-carrying BBWAA member and teaches Multimedia Sports Reporting at his alma mater.

You can find him and tweet him @JoeRiveraSN, if you're into that sort of thing.