Aaron Rodgers has been off the field all season, dealing with a a serious Achilles injury. Rogers says he talked to Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins on Monday (Oct. 30) and gave advice on how to handle the rehab situation for his torn Achilles tendon. It’s pretty cool to envision a situation when Aaron Rodgers gives Kirk Cousins advice, since they’re both such legendary quarterbacks.
“I have a lot of respect for him and just got to talk to him — hopefully, encourage him a little bit,” Rodgers said Tuesday (Oct. 31) while he was making his weekly appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show.” Watch a clip of his appearance below.
“It sucks. It definitely sucks. He was playing really, really well. … So, I’m disappointed for him with that injury but passed on all the information I could and let him know what’s been working for me.”
Rodgers, who underwent surgery seven weeks ago, confidently stated that he is progressing faster than expected. He remains determined to make a comeback this season for the New York Jets (4-3), a team that has been on a winning streak and is actively pursuing a spot in the AFC playoffs.
Currently, Rodgers is undergoing rehabilitation at a renowned facility in the Los Angeles area. He affectionately refers to it as an “Achilles factory.” Alongside him, his teammate Alijah Vera-Tucker, Buffalo Bills cornerback Tre’Davious White, and Baltimore Ravens running back J.K. Dobbins are also working hard to recover at the same facility.
“Because my rehab’s been great, because I feel so good, obviously people have been interested in what I’m doing, and I’ve just been passing along what’s been working for me,” Rodgers said, also saying that an Achilles tear no longer is “a death sentence” because medicine and technology have advanced so much.
Dr. Neal ElAttrache, a surgeon based in Los Angeles, successfully repaired Aaron Rodgers’ ruptured Achilles using an innovative technique known as the “speed bridge” on Sept. 13. Many believe this method promotes faster healing. To aid in his recovery, Rodgers is utilizing blood flow restriction during his rehabilitation, allowing him to build muscle through low-load exercises.
While acknowledging that his approach may not be suitable for everyone, Rodgers is determined to take the path that will enable him to return to the field as soon as possible. In contrast, Kirk Cousins, who suffered an injury on Sunday and has been placed on injured reserve, may choose a different route, as he has the luxury of more time to prepare for the 2024 season now that a return this year is no longer possible.
Rodgers has made great strides in his recovery. He can now take a shorter dropback and confidently throw the football, as we saw during the pregame warmups on Sunday. Although he’s not yet jogging, he mentioned that he’s able to walk normally. He has even ditched his crutches about two weeks ago.
Rodgers has yet to give a definite timeline for when he’ll be back in action. Coach Robert Saleh of the Jets mentioned that they are willing to wait for Rodgers. Meanwhile, Zach Wilson has been holding down the fort. He’s actually bene leading the Jets to surprising victories against the Bills and Philadelphia Eagles. He also ignited a thrilling comeback against the New York Giants last Sunday.
“There’s still a lot that has to happen,” Rodgers said. “Every week seems to be there’s a progression. Sometimes, when you’re in it, it doesn’t feel like anything’s happening and you’re stagnant to some sort of plateau. But then you look back and think, ‘I was walking on crutches about a month ago.’
“Now I’m able to take some dropbacks, put legitimate weight onto it, transfer my weight, get onto my front foot, do really high-percentage, body-weight walking and calf raises, which is progressive,” he added. “So, it’s really good. There’s still a long way to go, and a lot of things have to happen. We obviously have to be still alive, but God, I love the vibe on the team.”
Aaron Rodgers Gives Kirk Cousins Advice: