15 September 2023 , 19:20
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Zach Wilson has been given huge backing by Aaron Rodgers with the 24-year-old now the starting quarterback for the New York Jets.
Against all the odds Wilson is now the Jets starter once more, as Rodgers' debut ended after just four minutes on Monday night. Rodgers tore his Achilles after being sacked by Buffalo Bills pass rusher Leonard Floyd, and he knew straight away it could be a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Wilson managed to execute a 22-16 win against the Bills, with the help of undrafted rookie Xavier Gipson who scored a game-winning touchdown in overtime with a 65-yard punt return. Rodgers and Wilson have been inseparable this offseason, and have become close friends.
And despite his own heartbreak, Rodgers has put all that to one side to support his new teammate and declare his confidence that he can carry the team to success in his absence.
"I'm very confident in Zach. I'm excited for him. I love him," Rodgers said on The Pat McAfee Show. "He's a great kid. Really looking forward to getting back there when I can travel. I miss the guys. I miss New York and New Jersey, the excitement."
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Wilson admitted that Rodgers was once his role model back in the day, but his admiration for him changed initially when the veteran quarterback was linked with the Jets this past offseason. Wilson said he'd make life "hell" for Rodgers in training, but they quickly became close when his trade from the Green Bay Packers was completed.
Rodgers has been mentoring Wilson this past offseason, and now the 24-year-old is having to use what he learned earlier than expected. "I feel like I've been trying to copy every little thing he's doing, from his footwork to the coaching tips he has given us," Wilson said Thursday.
"He's done an amazing job, more than we could ask for as quarterbacks." Wilson also admitted that they've been like brothers, although since the injury he's been mindful of giving Rodgers his space.
Wilson loves hanging out with Rodgers since he arrived at the Jets (Michael Owens/Getty Images)"Big bro and little bro, hanging out," Wilson said with a smile about this past week. "I just wanted to spend a little time together." The Jets are 1-0 even without Rodgers, and are still determined to make the playoffs for the first time since 2010.
Rodgers essentially confirmed in his first interview since the injury that he would return next year for sure, as he's keen to prove the "doubters" wrong with his ability. However, he revealed that he's exploring different methods of recovery, and could even return if the Jets make it to the postseason.
"Like with Kevin Garnett, anything is possible," Rodgers said when asked if there's any chance he could play again in 2023. The usual recovery period for a torn Achilles is 8-12 months, but Rodgers said: "Stack all the odds up against me and see what happens."