NFL Execs: Jets’ Aaron Rodgers Will Be Comeback Player of the Year over Cousins, More

Doric SamSeptember 3, 2024

Mitchell Leff/Getty Images

As New York Jets star quarterback Aaron Rodgers makes his way back from a torn Achilles that cost him virtually the entire 2023 season, many believe he’s poised to bounce back in a big way this year.

Per ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Rodgers received the most votes from a group of league executives and scouts in a poll on who will be the 2024 NFL Comeback Player of the Year. Rodgers beat out Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins, Miami Dolphins edge rusher Jaelan Phillips, Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow and Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson.

Rodgers was expected to turn around the fortune of the struggling Jets franchise when he was acquired from the Green Bay Packers last year, but those hopes were derailed when he tore his Achilles four plays into New York’s 2023 season opener. The Jets struggled to find consistency under center on their way to finishing with a 7-10 record and missing the playoffs for the 13th straight year, the longest active streak in any of the four major North American sports.

Fowler noted that “the stage is set for Rodgers to produce the kind of age 40 passing season in a new uniform that former teammate, Brett Favre, gave Minnesota in 2009,” particularly because “the Jets’ offense is well-stocked with talent, the offensive line has improved, and Rodgers threw the ball effortlessly in training camp.” His mobility is the biggest question, but if he can stay healthy, New York will be able to achieve success this year.

“The thing with Rodgers is if he can move with efficiency like he’s been able to in the past,” an AFC scout said. “While Tom Brady threw more traditionally from the pocket, Rodgers has always had more subtle movements and athleticism to his game, throwing on the run. If he can get that back, then watch out. If he can’t, then the Jets will need a steady dose of running the football to help him. I think they need to do that regardless.”

Cousins is also working his way back from a torn Achilles as he enters his first year in Atlanta. Phillips, Burrow and Richardson all had their 2023 campaigns cut short by injuries as well. Fowler pointed out that the last six players to win Comeback Player of the Year were quarterbacks.

“[Cousins] should win it,” an NFC executive said. “He’s going to make everyone in Atlanta better.”

It sounds like it will come down to a race between a pair of veteran signal callers, but a big year from Rodgers will likely give him the edge over Cousins.