Aaron Rodgers was sacked five times by the Denver Broncos last Sunday(Image: Getty Images)

New York Jets make quarterback decision after Aaron Rodgers injury concern

Aaron Rodgers has been dealing with a knee injury in recent days and was forced to miss practice earlier in the week, but the New York Jets have not listed their star quarterback's status as questionable for Sunday's game

by · The Mirror

The New York Jets' recent roster changes have done little to alleviate worries about quarterback Aaron Rodgers' health following a recent scare.

During Week 4's match against the Denver Broncos, Rodgers was sacked five times and hit on nine other plays, resulting in a heart-breaking 10-9 loss for the Jets. Post-match, the four-time MVP admitted to reporters that he was "banged up a little bit" and "got some stuff with both legs", but reassured fans that he'd be "fine" for Sunday's game against the Minnesota Vikings.

Two days on, Rodgers confirmed he was still feeling the impact of the tough defeat. "I'm feeling a little banged up. Took some shots. Knee is a little swollen. But you know, just kind of wear and tear, Week 4," he shared during his regular slot on The Pat McAfee Show.

By Wednesday, Rodgers' name had appeared on the Jets official injury report, though he only missed the initial stretching part of practice. Addressing concerns over his quarterback's health, head coach Robert Saleh stated: "He's just dealing with his knee, but we're not concerned. It's for the spirit of the rule if he's getting treatment for something, he's got to be on the injury report."

Ahead of the Jets' showdown in London, star quarterback Rodgers has been cleared to play, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. Despite this, the New York team is playing it safe, confirming on Saturday that they've called up backup quarterback Adrian Martinez from the practice squad.

Martinez showed potential in the preseason, where he completed 25-of-47 passes for 270 yards, didn't throw any touchdowns, and was picked off once. However, he impressed with his legs, rushing six times for a total of 51 yards.

Aaron Rodgers was 'banged up a little bit' following the Jets' 10-9 loss to the Broncos( Image: Getty Images)

Whether Martinez's promotion is just a safety measure or hints at ongoing worries about Rodgers' injury remains unclear. The Jets also have Tyrod Taylor as an option, who would likely step in if the veteran can't play.

The Jets are counting on a solid game from Rodgers to take down the undefeated Vikings, one of only two NFL teams without a loss this season. With a mixed bag of results so far, including victories against the Titans and Patriots but defeats to the 49ers and Broncos, New York sits at a 2-2 record.

Rodgers, speaking to NYJets.com, reflected on the team's inconsistent performance: "We've been up and down," he said. "We came off a good Thursday night game where we were efficient in all areas and then just didn't play well at home. So we're still trying to find a way to get the ball in space to our guys, get our best 11 on the field."

"And it starts with me. I've got to be efficient and deal the ball when necessary, hold onto the ball when necessary, and make sure we're good on first and second down this week."