The New York Jets’ latest roster move did little to ease concerns surrounding quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ recent health scare.
Against the Denver Broncos in Week 4, Rodgers was sacked five times and hit on another nine plays during the Jets’ gut-wrenching 10-9 loss. Speaking to reporters following the game, the four-time MVP revealed that he was “banged up a little bit” and “got some stuff with both legs” – though asserted that he’d be “fine” for Sunday’s matchup with the Minnesota Vikings.
Two days later, Rodgers reiterated that he was still feeling the after-effects of the grueling defeat. “I’m feeling a little banged up. Took some shots. Knee is a little swollen. But you know, just kind of wear and tear, Week 4,” he said while making his regular appearance on The Pat McAfee Show.
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On Wednesday, Rodgers’ name popped up on the Jets official injury report, but he was only sidelined for the opening stretching portion of practice. Addressing his quarterback’s health status, head coach Robert Saleh said: “He’s just dealing with his knee, but we’re not concerned. It’s for the spirit of the rule if he’s getting treatment for something, he’s got to be on the injury report.”
Ahead of the Jets’ contest in London, Rodgers was removed from the injury report and deemed good to start, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter. But New York seemingly isn’t taking any chances, announcing on Saturday that backup quarterback Adrian Martinez was elevated from the practice squad.
In three preseason appearances – one of which was a start – Martinez completed 25-of-47 passes for 270 yards, no touchdowns, and one interception. He found greater success on the ground, rushing six times for 51 yards.
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Aaron Rodgers was sacked five times by the Denver Broncos last Sunday (
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It remains to be seen if Martinez’s elevation is simply a precaution, or if Rodgers’ lingering injury is still cause for concern. The Jets additionally have signal-caller Tyrod Taylor, who would likely take over the offense should the 40-year-old be sidelined for any period of time.
The Jets will need a strong performance from Rodgers if they hope to beat the 4-0 Vikings, who are just one of two teams in the NFL that haven’t lost this season. New York, meanwhile, has endured a rollercoaster start to the year, boasting a 2-2 record following wins over the Tennessee Titans and New England Patriots but losses to the San Francisco 49ers and Broncos.
“We’ve been up and down,” Rodgers said per NYJets.com. “We came off a good Thursday night game where we were efficient in all areas and then just didn’t play well at home. So we’re still trying to find a way to get the ball in space to our guys, get our best 11 on the field.
“And it starts with me. I’ve got to be efficient and deal the ball when necessary, hold onto the ball when necessary, and make sure we’re good on first and second down this week.”
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