Aaron Rodgers’ return to MetLife Stadium in Week 1 of the 2023 NFL season ended in heartbreak after only four snaps due to a torn Achilles. Fast forward more than a year, and the veteran quarterback re-entered the same arena—this time leaving with triumph. Leading the New York Jets to a commanding 24-3 victory over the New England Patriots, Rodgers reminded fans of his excellence.
Despite being 40, Rodgers seemed unaffected by age, moving fluidly, dodging defenders, and slicing through New England’s defense with precision throws. His stat line boasted 281 passing yards, completing 27 of 35 attempts with two touchdowns—one each to Allen Lazard and Garrett Wilson—and zero interceptions. Rodgers even showcased some mobility, scrambling for 18 yards on three runs. Breece Hall added to the offensive dominance, finding the end zone on the ground.
A significant moment came when Garrett Wilson became the first first-round draft pick wide receiver to catch a touchdown from Rodgers. Quite the feat, considering this marked Rodgers’ 480th career TD pass.
Throughout the game, the crowd at MetLife roared with chants of “Rodgers!” The atmosphere was electric, and the quarterback soaked it all in, calling the night “really special.” Reflecting on his performance, he admitted he felt in control and at ease on the field. “I’ve been progressing,” Rodgers shared postgame. “This felt like the first step in getting back to the level I know I can play at. Honestly, I felt like my old self.”
Returning to MetLife, where his season once crumbled, could’ve stirred anxiety, but Rodgers embraced the challenge, stating, “I had a real calm about it. The first week took away a lot of those nerves.”
The Jets, who struggled offensively in his absence last season, seem to have found their rhythm. Rodgers directed the offense masterfully, while the dynamic backfield duo of Hall and Braelon Allen tallied 109 rushing yards. Their revamped offensive line kept Rodgers upright, giving him plenty of time to work his magic.
For the Patriots, the night was disheartening, as they were thoroughly outplayed by their division rivals. Yet, the game did offer a silver lining—fans got their first look at rookie quarterback Drake Maye. The No. 3 overall pick in the 2024 draft replaced veteran Jacoby Brissett in the fourth quarter after the Jets’ defense shut down Brissett’s efforts.
Maye’s debut was modest: 4-of-8 passing for 22 yards, along with 12 rushing yards on two attempts. Though he struggled under pressure, being sacked twice, it was a valuable first taste of NFL action.
As the Jets bask in their victory and Rodgers enjoys a rejuvenating performance, New England faces some tough questions moving forward. Meanwhile, for Jets fans, Rodgers’ second outing at MetLife was more than just a win—it felt like a return to glory.
