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| Aaron Rodgers (Photo: Elsa/Getty images) |
During his highly anticipated debut with the New York Jets, quarterback Aaron Rodgers suffered a left ankle injury on just his fourth snap of the game against the Buffalo Bills. After being sacked, Rodgers spent some time in the injury tent before being carted off the field. However, he managed to walk off the cart and limp to the locker room on his own. The Jets initially labeled his injury as an ankle injury and deemed his return questionable. However, they later ruled him out for the remainder of the game. Despite the initial concerns, X-rays on Rodgers' ankle came back negative.
In a sideline interview with ESPN's Lisa Salters, Jets coach Robert Saleh provided limited information, stating Rodgers was being checked out and that they would know more later. The injury left the sellout crowd at MetLife Stadium disheartened, as hopes of a successful season took a hit with Rodgers' departure from the game.
The injury occurred when left tackle Duane Brown, who had limited practice during the offseason due to a shoulder injury, was beaten by Bills defensive end Leonard Floyd. Brown's loss of footing allowed Floyd an unhindered path to Rodgers. In an attempt to escape Floyd's grasp, Rodgers twisted his left ankle and remained on the ground. The team's medical personnel quickly rushed to his aid.
Replacing Rodgers in the game was Zach Wilson, the Jets' backup quarterback who had been demoted twice last season. Wilson, who was drafted second overall in 2021, now had the opportunity to showcase his skills in a high-pressure situation. This injury is not the first time Rodgers has dealt with leg issues, as he previously missed some practices with a strained left calf muscle during OTAs.
Despite the setback, the Jets remain hopeful that Rodgers' injury is not serious and that he will be able to return to the field soon. In the meantime, fans and the team will anxiously await further updates on his condition. The focus will now shift to Wilson, who will need to step up and prove himself as a capable replacement in Rodgers absence.
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