Where is Aaron Rodgers? Why the Jets QB likely won't play in the preseason after his Achilles injury last season

After tearing his Achilles tendon four snaps into the 2023 season, New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers is close to returning to the field, but many fans are wondering if that will be during the preseason or in Week 1.

The future Hall of Famer will be looking to end the league's longest playoff drought by leading the Jets to the playoffs for the first time since the 2010-11 season, but it remains to be seen if he can return to his previous level of play following his injury.

A brief appearance in a preseason game could help Rodgers get used to live games for the first time in nearly a year, but it's unlikely the 17-year NFL veteran will be on the field until Week 1 of the regular season.

Here's everything you need to know about the next few weeks for Rodgers and his potential impact.

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Latest Aaron Rodgers injury news: Will the Jets QB play in the preseason?

Jets head coach Robert Saleh said last week that he had had “preliminary discussions” with Rodgers about a possible appearance in the team's third preseason game against the Giants. Saleh also mentioned that Rodgers would be included in discussions on the subject with coordinators and general manager Joe Douglas.

The 40-year-old quarterback gave his opinion on whether he should play in the preseason while speaking to WFAN's Morning Show on Tuesday.

“I don’t think I [play preseason]”, Rodgers said. “As long as I react correctly in practice … that's important. Maybe the speed and attitude changes a little bit because you can get hit, but the preseason is not real football. It's different.”

Although Saleh has neither officially confirmed nor denied whether Rodgers will face the Jets' city opponents, that prospect does not seem very likely.

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Will Aaron Rodgers be ready for Week 1 of the regular season?

Returning from an Achilles injury isn't easy, and Rodgers' age only complicates the process. Barring unforeseen circumstances, he's expected to start for the Jets in Week 1 against the 49ers.

The quarterback has not been limited in practice since organized team activities began in May. A year after his injury, Rodgers will likely return to the field and try to lead the Jets to the postseason for the first time in over 13 years.