Former Bengals player Chad Johnson is advising Aaron Rodgers to not rush back to NFL action with the New York Jets this season. Johnson is concerned that Rodgers, who tore his Achilles on September 11, is progressing too quickly in his recovery and may risk reinjuring himself if he returns too soon. In an exclusive interview with TMZ Sports, Johnson expressed his concern for Rodgers’ well-being and emphasized the need for caution in his return to the field.
Johnson, known for his candid and outspoken nature, did not mince words when he urged Rodgers to pump the brakes on his potential return to the Jets. “Don’t come back. You’ll hurt yourself,” Johnson stated emphatically. Drawing from his experience in the NFL, Johnson stressed the importance of allowing injuries like a torn Achilles to fully heal before attempting to resume professional gameplay.
While Rodgers has shown remarkable progress in his recovery, including taking dropbacks and firing off passes during pregame warmups, Johnson remains adamant about the risks associated with rushing back from such a serious injury. He noted that injuries involving the Achilles, groin, or knees should not be taken lightly, and players should avoid rushing back to the field despite the competitive drive and pressure to perform.
Even as Rodgers appears eager to return to the Jets and aid the struggling team, Johnson is urging him to consider the long-term implications of pushing his recovery too soon. “You have to understand, there are few injuries that you don’t want to play with. You don’t rush back from those,” Johnson cautioned. Despite any assurances from medical professionals, Johnson emphasized the need for Rodgers to prioritize his long-term health and well-being over a hasty return to action.
In expressing his hope for Rodgers to take the entire year off and focus on achieving a full recovery, Johnson underscored the importance of reaching 100% health before considering a return to the field. He believes that allowing ample time for recovery and rehabilitation will better position Rodgers for success in the 2024 season and help avoid the potential risks associated with returning prematurely.
As Rodgers contemplates his return to the NFL, Johnson’s words of caution serve as a reminder of the significance of prioritizing long-term health and well-being in professional sports. Whether Rodgers heeds the advice and takes the necessary time to fully recover or chooses to make an earlier return remains to be seen. Nonetheless, Johnson’s concern for his fellow athlete’s well-being serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges and decisions that professional athletes face when navigating injuries and recovery.
