Aaron Rodgers, the New York Jets’ recently signed quarterback, did not attend the team’s essential minicamp this week. The team has marked his absence as unexcused, potentially leading to financial consequences for Rodgers.
This mandatory three-day event, which began on Tuesday, marks the last official gathering before the Jets’ training camp kicks off in late July. The absence of Rodgers was notably addressed by the Jets’ head coach, Robert Saleh, during a media briefing.
“He’s not here, and we’ve moved on,” stated Saleh. “We’re focused on the guys who are here, and we’re excited to get to work with them.”
This development is unexpected, especially since Rodgers has previously expressed enthusiasm about his new role with the Jets and his ambitions to steer the team towards new heights. After a long tenure of 18 seasons with the Green Bay Packers, Rodgers joined the Jets in April and is a four-time MVP quarterback.
While the reasons behind Rodgers’ absence are not disclosed, and the Jets have limited their comments to Saleh’s remarks, his absence could lead to substantial penalties. Under the terms of the NFL’s collective bargaining agreement, Rodgers may be fined up to $95,877 if he misses all three days of the minicamp.
With training camp set to start on July 27, whether Rodgers will join the Jets at that time remains uncertain. Although his missing minicamp may not severely affect his season preparations, it could potentially strain his relationship with the organization as they gear up for the 2023 season.