The Green Bay Packers former legend Aaron Rodgers has introduced a ray of sunshine in the New York Jets after enrolling himself in their roster. After donning the No.12 jersey for 18 years in Green Bay, the quarterback will now be seen in No.8, the number he wore in college.
Many Jets fans were counting their days in anticipation of the star QB, and the Jets’ final preseason match brought an end to their wait. As Rodgers headed to the field, plenty of Jets fans went head over heels seeing him, and he later gave them even more reasons to continue cheering on the field.
Rodgers breaks preseason hiatus with debut for Jets
Aaron made his debut as a Gang Green player on Saturday night in their 32-24 victory over the New York Giants in the preseason finale for both teams. Prior to stepping into the field for the first time after the trade, he stole fan’s hearts by flashing the “I love you” sign to them.
Fans at MetLife on their feet as @AaronRodgers12 steps on the field to start for the first time 👏
📺: #NYJvsNYG on NFL Network
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/624TrfDUF6 pic.twitter.com/0L8V6xEcTG— NFL (@NFL) August 26, 2023
The four-time MVP had not appeared in preseason games since 2018 and he was also benched in the Jets first three preseason games. However, Robert Saleh decided to bring an end to this streak and let fans have a look at the QB1 before the regular season kicks off a few days later.
Saleh sent a shockwave among the Jets fans after declaring the ex-Packers star as the starter against the Giants. He later explained the move was taken as a rehearsal and even A-Rod seemed to vehemently welcome it.
Aaron Rodgers makes instant impact with first TD pass as a Jet
Aaron played nine snaps in the Jets preseason final and recorded 5-for-8 for 47 yards along with one touchdown pass during this short tenure. However, the veteran’s outstanding athleticism against the Giants’ backup defense came when he hit Garrett Wilson for an incredible 14-yard touchdown pass on a placed ball.
🚨AARON RODGERS 1st JETS TD🚨
📺: #NYJvsNYG on NFL Network
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/624TrfDUF6 pic.twitter.com/PSWFIwcLcF— NFL (@NFL) August 26, 2023
In the first play of the finale, the 39-year-old QB got the ball out to Wilson and the latter went for 10 yards while his second pass was under pressure, albeit the 10-time Pro-Bowler buckled up by showcasing a fantastic pass where he contorted his body and later got the ball out to Tyler Conklin. He missed some throws during the match, but his touchdown pass to Wilson should cover up the burden.
The Jets are set to open their regular season against the Buffalo Bills on September 11. Who will you be supporting in the match? Will Rodgers be able to live up to the lofty expectations of the Gang Green’s fans? You can leave your thoughts in the comments.
