Aaron Rodgers heated as Jets OL steps on QB during training session
Aaron Rodgers and the New York Jets have high expectations ahead of the 2024 season. But if Monday's practice session is any indication, they have much work to do before fulfilling their true potential.
The New York Post's Ryan Dunleavy reported that the offense made multiple errors, including a fumble when an offensive lineman stepped on the quarterback's foot during a handoff.
According to ESPN's Rich Cimini, either center Joe Tippmann or guard John Simpson was the culprit:
Such a display of "sloppy" playing form has Rodgers very upset. Wide receiver Allen Lazard, who failed to catch a pass that was subsequently intercepted, said:
"You're talking about one of the best, if not the best quarterback of all time, and his standard and level of play is something a lot of guys haven't seen yet... Honestly, he expects the same standard that he holds himself to out of everyone else, and today just didn't resemble that at all."
Aaron Rodgers sees himself playing two more seasons as a Jet
It is not hard to see why someone as accomplished as Aaron Rodgers would be upset at the offensive effort the Jets have shown during practice: he is in for the long term. He wants to win titles and add to his winning legacy, which is why 2023-24 was such a devastating loss for him.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, he said:
"I would say there was a lot of sentiment that last year wasn't a great year for me. I'd like to still have two great years."
He also expounded on how prepared he has been in his return from his Achilles injury:
"It's about four percent now. We had a play, the protection broke through, so I had to step up and get out to the right and throw to Allen. It's one of those things: I came back, took a knee and thought to myself, I didn't think about that rep that just happened."
There was also the topic of his scuffle with wide receiver Garrett Wilson. But for Rodgers, it is mere motivation to improve and become a leader:
"I want him to take the next step in leadership. He has to realize people are watching him at all times. Now you're in a position to lead, everybody is watching how your attitude is, how your interactions are."
The Jets begin their preseason against the Washington Commanders on August 10. They begin their regular season against the San Francisco 49ers on September 9.