Aaron Rodgers and Jets Starters Out of Preseason Finale

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. (AP) — New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh announced on Thursday that quarterback Aaron Rodgers and the team's starters will not participate in the preseason finale against the New York Giants on Saturday night. This decision comes nearly a year after Rodgers suffered a torn Achilles tendon during his debut with the Jets on September 11, 2022. The upcoming game serves as the Jets' final preparation before their season opener against San Francisco on September 9. Rodgers expressed a lack of preference regarding his participation in the preseason game, which will mark a significant moment as he has not played since his injury. Saleh emphasized that the decision to rest the starters was not driven by injury concerns but rather a strategic approach to preparation. He noted that the team has engaged in three scrimmages this summer, which he believes have been productive in getting the players ready for the regular season. The coach highlighted the value of the joint practices held with Washington, Carolina, and the Giants, suggesting that these sessions provided more beneficial experience than a typical preseason game. Last year, Rodgers and the starters played two series in the preseason finale, but Saleh indicated that the circumstances this year are different. Rookie Adrian Martinez will start against the Giants, with fellow rookie Andrew Peasley taking over in the second half, while veteran backup Tyrod Taylor will also sit out.