New York Jets interim coach Jeff Ulbrich has confirmed that Aaron Rodgers will indeed be the starting quarterback for the team, set to play against the Seattle Seahawks this Sunday. As Rodgers approaches his 41st birthday next week, he has faced a slew of injuries throughout the Jets’ challenging 3-8 season, including a sore knee, sprained ankle, and troublesome hamstring issues.
Ulbrich expressed optimism on Monday, stating that Rodgers returned from the bye week feeling prepared and more physically fit. “I can’t speak for Aaron’s health, but I can say that he’s certainly in a better state today than he has been in recent weeks,” Ulbrich stated. “He definitely feels better than he has in some time. A healthy Aaron Rodgers is the player we all admire, so I’m really looking forward to seeing what he can do.”
Despite struggling with various leg injuries, a report from NFL Network revealed that Rodgers has opted not to undergo medical scans on his injury in order to remain on the field. Ulbrich indicated he had not been updated regarding Rodgers’ decision-making about his health. Rodgers was reportedly dealing with a “significant” hamstring issue following the game against Denver in Week 4, and subsequently sprained his ankle while playing against Minnesota.
The four-time MVP has found it difficult to execute the mobility and improvisation that have characterized his playing style in the past. In the wake of New York’s recent 28-27 defeat to Indianapolis, Rodgers noted that he felt healthier than he had in some time, although he recorded 22 completions on 29 attempts for a total of 184 yards against the Colts, struggling at the start of the game.
Discussion has surfaced online regarding whether the Jets should consider benching Rodgers in light of his recent performance and injuries, especially after owner Woody Johnson previously brought up the idea during a coaching meeting following the loss in Week 4. However, when questioned about the possibility of shutting down Rodgers, Ulbrich decisively stated, “There has not.”
When further probed about whether Rodgers would start in this upcoming game, the interim coach affirmed, “Absolutely.” He also mentioned that he did not need to address the external discussions concerning Rodgers’ health and performance, emphasizing that he feels aligned with the quarterback.
Last week, Ulbrich mentioned that he intended to conduct an extensive review of the team’s shortcomings after a troubling season in which they have lost seven of their last eight matches, putting them on the brink of missing the playoffs for the 14th year in a row. Despite his reflections, he opted not to rearrange the coaching assignments within his staff and confirmed he would be continuing his role in managing the defense. He noted no personnel shifts are expected following the bye week, barring any injuries.
Explaining the situation further, Ulbrich expressed enthusiasm about identifying areas for improvement while also discovering strengths to build upon. “We’ve established a clear vision for how to improve, and I found some positive aspects to latch onto. So, I’m feeling hopeful in both respects,” he added.
In a shake-up of the team’s management, general manager Joe Douglas was dismissed last Tuesday, just weeks after head coach Robert Saleh was let go. Additionally, the Jets announced that they would collaborate with The 33rd Team, an analytics and consulting group established by former Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum, to assist in their search for a new general manager and head coach.
Ulbrich downplayed any discomfort resulting from these organizational changes, focusing instead on finishing the current season strongly while maintaining a high standard of play. “Honestly, this doesn’t create any awkward situation for me. My main focus is on concluding the season in the right way, playing the kind of football we can all take pride in, myself included. It all starts with Seattle,” he stated.
As for injuries, linebacker C.J. Mosley mentioned he is making progress in his recovery from a herniated disk in his neck but remains uncertain about his availability for the upcoming game. Mosley remarked that Monday marked the first occasion since his injury occurred during warmups against New England on October 27 that he was able to don a helmet. Ulbrich also noted that the team is still assessing the situation with left tackle Tyron Smith, who missed the Indianapolis game due to a neck issue.