Jets QB Aaron Rodgers is aiming for a potential return to the playoffs after having innovative surgery on a torn Achilles tendon

“There are a lot of different ideas about the total duration of rehab, and I guess what I would say is just because someone doesn’t do it a certain way doesn’t mean it’s not possible,” Rodgers said. “There are definitely some odds against me based on age, but I love it. Put the odds against me and see what happens. My entire focus and dedication is on getting as much information as I can and adding to what I’ve already put together as a very good rehab plan that I think will shock some people.”

While Rodgers has high hopes for a quick return, there are a lot of caveats.

Sources say that a quick bridge does not guarantee a faster return, although it is said to enhance the strength of the repair and protect it from expansion. A lot depends on how Rodgers rehabilitates and how his body responds when he turns 40 in December. If there’s no reason to push a comeback — i.e. the Jets aren’t in the playoffs — that would be moot.

Of course, the Jets will need to get there without four-time NFL MVP Rodgers. Zach Wilson, the former No. 2 overall pick, will start Sunday’s road game against the Cowboys.

There may also be some risks associated with this procedure. But for Rodgers, sources say the potential benefits of a quicker return to the field outweigh risks such as the need for future surgery.

For now, the Jets will roll with Wilson under center. Sources say they weren’t looking for another high-profile veteran QB — not Tom Brady, not Matt Ryan, not Joe Flacco. The basic idea was that Wilson would give them the best chance of winning.

Wilson is talented, but it was clear last year that his confidence was waning. This year, his confidence is high and he’s clearly benefited from months of offseason work alongside his childhood hero Rodgers, as well as new Jets offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett, run game coordinator Todd Downing and others on the reconfigured coaching staff. The Jets publicly announced they had faith in Wilson with coach Robert Saleh telling reporters, “We’re dealing with Zach.”

Sources say Rodgers has been FaceTiming with Wilson this week, making sure he’s fully prepared. The two have already been in touch since co-coaching during Wilson’s rookie season in 2021, and that has continued.

“I really believe in myself,” Wilson told reporters on September 14.