On The Run, Rodgers Reaches Paydirt at New York Jets' OTAs

The four-time NFL MVP took practice reps with his new team as Phase 3 kicked off

Author:
Ralph Ventre
Publish date:
May 22, 2023 7:21 PM EDT

In this story:

Aaron Rodgers was naturally the story of the day when the New York Jets took the field for "organized team activity," more widely-known as OTAs, on Monday at the Atlantic Health Jets Training Center.

The team's new starting quarterback, who bailed out on this portion of the voluntary offseason program last spring with the Green Bay Packers, was present and accounted for on the first day of the NFL's Phase 3 with Gang Green.

Per NFL guidelines, “Teams may conduct a total of 10 days of organized team practice activity, or ‘OTAs’." Jets' voluntary OTAs are slated for May 22-23, May 25, May 30-31, June 2, June 5-6, June 8-9.

While the pads won't be popping at these practices, there is a prime opportunity for Rodgers to develop a rapport with his new teammates. The 39-year old future Hall-of-Famer knows offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett's scheme well, but will benefit from learning more about the Jets' personnel, including top wide receiver Garrett Wilson.

Rodgers has already publicly lauded Wilson since the two have started working together at the team facility.

"Obviously Garrett [Wilson], he's a talented guy," said Rodgers during a guest spot on the Pat McAfee Show. "I threw him a pass today [Tuesday]. I just kinda turned and was like ‘wow.’"

Oddly enough, the top Rodgers' highlight from Monday's practice activity wasn't a pass from the NFL's ninth all-time yards leader.

Instead, the Jets' social media team shared a video clip showing Rodgers rolling out after a play broke down. Looking spry, the four-time NFL MVP catches the cameraman on a pump fake while running the ball for a touchdown inside the front right pylon.

Meanwhile, Jets' owner Woody Johnson, who has been an exuberant tweeter since the trade for Rodgers, posted a video of the star quarterback hitting tight end CJ Uzomah on a simple throw over the middle.

As for notable veteran attendees, linebackers CJ Mosley and Quincy Williams appeared in Jets' official social media posts as did safety Jordan Whitehead. On the other hand, defensive tackle Quinnen Williams, who is seeking a new contract, likely won't be seen during these voluntary OTAs.