Aspiring for greatness, Aaron Rodgers admits he “can play better” after MNF loss to 49ers

Aaron Rodgers refused to give any excuses for the Jets' disappointing loss in the season opener and claimed he could play better.

Aspiring for greatness, Aaron Rodgers admits he “can play better” after MNF loss to 49ers

Aaron Rodgers (Via Imago)

The New York Jets’ 2024 season opener may not have unfolded as they expected, but one thing that gave everyone a sign of relief was quarterback Aaron Rodgers‘ health as he avoided sustaining any injury. However, the 32-19 loss against the San Francisco 49ers hit the Green Gang, especially Rodgers intensely as he exclaimed he could do better. 

The Jets’ offense didn’t appear very different from last year, despite having the veteran quarterback. Early in the game, Allen Lazard dropped a crucial pass that would have converted a third down on the opening drive but it ended up disrupting the O-line. Their struggle continued when running back Breece Hall fumbled the ball on the team’s fourth offensive play. 

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The Jets’ offense struggled immensely to maintain drives throughout the game and the four-time MVP also acknowledged missing a couple of throws. This disruption of the offense not only restricted putting points on the board but also added pressure on the defense to compensate. 

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We expect greatness when we step on the field. We're going to move on to Tennessee quickly and then we've got a game four days after that. This is a tough opener for us, travel-wise and schedule-wise, but no excuses. We have to play better. I have to play better. We'll bounce back next week.
Aaron Rodgers said addressing the Green Gang’s defeat via the official transcript

The Jets’ signal-caller refused to blame the loss on the new additions or his limited participation in the preseason. Instead, he aspired to do better for his team as he knows he can. 

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Aaron Rodgers’ health and gratitude shine despite rough game

Even though Rodgers couldn’t perform in the season-opener as he had hoped, he felt great health-wise after getting on the football field after 20 months because of his injury. Although there remains some concern regarding his mobility, the quarterback didn’t feel as challenged in the opening game of the season. 

Yeah, it's been a while. ... A lot of gratitude just to be back in pads. So many people helped me get to this spot.
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Aaron Rodgers (image via Imago)

He was sacked once in the game, by the same Leonard Floyd who caused him the Achilles rupture injury last season but this time, the veteran handled it. He completed the game with five out of his 12 passes for 46 yards and an interception. Rodgers didn’t like his return performance and also logged his worst mark of 10.7% completion percentage since 2021.

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