New York Jets QB Aaron Rodgers 'Medically Cleared' vs. Washington Commanders in Week 16?

Aaron Rodgers suffered an Achilles injury in Week 1, but the New York Jets quarterback could make a miraculous return in Week 16 against the Washington Commanders.

It could very well be a Christmas miracle!

Per ESPN's Adam Schefter, New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers could look to return from his Week 1 Achilles injury on Dec. 24 when his team hosts the Washington Commanders.

After recently being cleared to practice, New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers is likely to be medically cleared to play this week upcoming, league sources told ESPN.https://t.co/3xeoLRJSbB

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 17, 2023

Rodgers, 39, was traded by the Green Bay Packers, the only team he had played for since he was drafted in the first round of the 2005 NFL Draft, to the Jets in hopes of having a better chance to compete for a playoff spot. He was also able to reunite with offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett, who helped Rodgers win the 2021 league MVP award while he was with the Packers.

However, there are two conditions for Rodgers' improbable return ...

First, the Jets have to be in contention to make the playoffs going into the last three weeks of the season. New York is currently 5-8 going into Week 15 and the team faces the Miami Dolphins, the AFC East leader, on Sunday. If the Jets win, they will remain in contention for Rodgers to be able to finish out the season and possibly squeak into the postseason.

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Second, Rodgers has to be able to protect himself from hits. This one is a little harder to deduce because there is no tangible evidence until he goes out on the field. However, his mobility with his Achilles will affect how he is able to protect himself. If he can, and if the Jets are in the playoff hunt, there's a good chance Rodgers will be under center when the Commanders are in town next week.