Jets' Aaron Rodgers makes appearance at Breeders' Cup, says he still hopes to play this season

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The New York Jets landed superstar quarterback Aaron Rodgers in an offseason blockbuster trade. But his time under center was short-lived after he injured his Achilles on the fourth play of the season. 

Rodgers has since undergone an innovative surgery that could accelerate the quarterback's recovery time. 

Normally, Achilles injuries require anywhere from nine months to a year of recovery time. But Rodgers has suggested he'll suit up again this season, and he doubled down Saturday on his hope to play again this year.

"It’s a process, step by step, day by day," Rodgers told NBC Sports when he appeared at Santa Anita Park for the Breeders’ Cup. "There’s some great days, some rough days. But the goal for me is to come back this year." 

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New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers stands on the sideline during the first half of a game against the New York Giants Oct. 29, 2023, in East Rutherford, N.J.  (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

The 39-year-old quarterback did caution that he has to reach a few benchmarks before he can play again.

"It’s got to be — otherwise, I think it’d be a lot of rehab in vain. We’ll see what happens. I’ve got to hit some markers before that. I’ve got to be able to move around. I’ve got to be able to avoid putting myself in harm’s way."

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On Friday, Rodgers posted a cryptic message on his social media account. 

"A little more time...," Rodgers wrote alongside a photo of his new Zenith watch on Instagram. Rodgers has a partnership with the luxury watch brand.

New York Jets