Wagering Odds Suggest Realistic Chance Aaron Rodgers Returns This Season

Could the Jets' quarterback make a shockingly fast recovery from Achilles surgery?

Author:
Ralph Ventre
Publish date:
Oct 19, 2023 9:55 AM EDT

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So, they're saying that there's a chance.

When Aaron Rodgers ruptured his Achilles in Week 1, it seemed as if the New York Jets had lost their starting quarterback for the remainder of the 2023 season. Rodgers, however, underwent an innovative surgery two days after the injury and there have been multiple factors fueling speculation of a possible late-season return for the four-time NFL MVP.

Five-plus weeks after the fateful night at MetLife Stadium, the betting market suggests that there's a legitimate possibility that Rodgers plays again this season.

BetOnline is offering a 2-to-1 payout for those who say "Yes" to the following proposition — "Will Aaron Rodgers play 1 more down this season?" The "No" option carries -300 odds, meaning a bettor must risk $300 in hopes of winning $100.

So, although the "No" side is favored, the odds are far from lopsided, inferring that the talk of a quicker-than-expected comeback for Rodgers is real.

"Obviously, we're ahead of schedule. There's a lot of factors to that. There's the way I've attacked the rehab. There's the surgery that Dr. ElAttrache did. Kind of around-the-clock approach that I've had," said Rodgers during an October 17 guest appearance on The Pat McAfee Show.

The 39-year-old Rodgers made no promises but has seemingly focused on a fast recovery from the start.

"Dr. Neal ElAttrache did kind of a newer, innovative surgery. I asked him if we could push it. If we could push it beyond the normal protocols. Cam Akers had the same surgery. He was able to come back in about five months. I've wanted to do things quicker, and smart, but quicker," said Rodgers.

Prior to spending the entire four quarters on the sideline, Rodgers was seen leisurely throwing the football during the pregame portion of the team's Week 6 win over Philadelphia on October 15. He suffered the injury on September 11.