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NFL Rumors: Aaron Rodgers planning return in 2024 despite Jets' dwindling playoff chances

The New York Jets were expected to make a run for the playoffs this season, but their chances took a hit four offensive plays into the season when quarterback Aaron Rodgers suffered a torn Achilles. This injury was supposed to knock him out for the remainder of the year, but a "speed-bridge" surgery with Dr. Neal ElAttrache has sped up the recovery time, with Rodgers expecting to return before the end of the season.

But in recent weeks, the Jets have fallen further out of the picture, as they are 4-6 entering Week 12 with a three-game losing streak. With that, fans and media members speculated whether Rodgers would even bother returning this season if the Jets' playoff chances are minimal.

FOX Sports' Jay Glazer reported during the Thanksgiving Day program that this past week, Rodgers wanted to return to show that he came back from the injury faster than any quarterback, regardless of the team's playoff chances.

"I was told originally, look if they're out of playoff contention then Aaron's probably not going to try and come back. Well that changed this past week," said Glazer. "I think Aaron, even if they're out of it, still wants to show he was able to come back faster from that Achilles tear faster than pretty much any quarterback ever.

"What he needs to do right now, Aaron's not trying to say 'I need to show the old Aaron Rodgers, run all over the place. Just a nice little circle to keep myself out of harm's way.' Aaron Rodgers definitely trying to speed up when he comes back..."

As for when a return is possible, Rodgers said during a recent appearance on "The Pat McAfee Show" that he would like to practice by his birthday, which falls on Saturday, Dec. 2. Of course, the team would have to open up his 21-day practice window to prepare for a return.

The Jets are currently looking to end their losing skid on Black Friday when they play the Miami Dolphins. The team is starting Tim Boyle at quarterback after demoting Zach Wilson to third string after last week's 32-6 loss to the Buffalo Bills. Veteran journeyman quarterback Trevor Siemian is set to be the primary backup behind Boyle on Friday.