Aaron Rodgers' preseason 'update' doesn't matter at all for the NY Jets

All eyes are on NY Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers, as his true Jets debut was delayed by one season following a torn Achilles suffered four plays into the 2023 season. His health and subsequent performance will be what determines how successful the Jets can be in 2024.

The Jets are wisely handling Rodgers very judiciously, trying not to put any added pressure on him or his body as they get ready for the 2024 season. That hasn't stopped the alarmist brigade from coming out in full force as they try to sound the doom and gloom sirens.

Jets head coach Robert Saleh confirmed that Rodgers is unlikely to play in the preseason as he works his way back to full health. He did, however, leave open a very slight possibility of him playing in the preseason finale against the New York Giants.

This update has been misconstrued by the rest of the NFL media landscape, as Rodgers has now been accused of being less than fully healthy and ready to sink the Jets' season. Many have pointed to the idea of him teasing a comeback during the 2023 season, yet being unable to play in the preseason, as hypocritical.

None of that holds any weight. Rodgers could have won yet another MVP and broken the Jets' playoff curse last year, and he still would not have been playing in the preseason. Apparently, not putting a 40-year-old quarterback in an unnecessary line of fire is poor roster management all of a sudden.

Aaron Rodgers not playing in preseason isn't concerning for NY Jets

The growing trend across the NFL is to not put any of the big-name stars out in the preseason, as the benefits they can gain from extra live reps are outweighed by the possible pitfalls

While there's some merit in testing out Rodgers to figure out how far along he is in his recovery, the Jets can see all they need in that area on the practice field. Rodgers is too important to risk messing around with in a meaningless game. Even without the injury, why play the franchise in a game that means nothing?

Rodgers and the Jets may end up struggling this season, but it won't be because of a lack of playing time in the preseason or a few days of minicamp that he missed. Everyone freaking out about this needs to take a deep breath and collect themselves.