The New York Jets faced the Miami Dolphins in a highly anticipated Week 15 showdown, with speculation surrounding Aaron Rodgers’ potential comeback from a long-term injury. However, Rodgers must be relieved that he had no role in the game, as the Miami Dolphins asserted their dominance with an impressive 30-0 victory in Miami Gardens, Florida.
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Raheem Mostert’s stellar performance with two rushing touchdowns, set a franchise single-season record for total touchdowns. The Dolphins’ defense, led by Bradley Chubb’s three sacks and impactful plays, successfully kept the Jets scoreless, leaving their fans profoundly disappointed.
Fans expressed their sentiments on the Miami Dolphins’ dominant victory over the New York Jets, even as the Jets lost all playoff hopes. Comments ranged from the belief that the Dolphins ended Aaron Rodgers’ will to return this season to the criticism of the Jets’ offensive struggles. These comments highlighted their significant sacks and minimal total yards.
Again… the idea that Woody Johnson, Robert Saleh and Joe Douglas and forcing actual doctors to lie and forcing a QB – who doesn’t do anything he doesn’t want to do – to play – will never not be funny https://t.co/d5XjmrfdRH
— Hot Topic Satanist (@DLO87) December 17, 2023
The Miami Dolphins just ended Aaron Rodgers’ will to return to the field this season.
It’s over. pic.twitter.com/1jceSggPk0
— Anthony Cardenas (@FinsByTone) December 17, 2023
Some found humor in the situation, sarcastically referencing the decision to rush back a 40-year-old QB for a team with a 5-8 record, pointing out the peculiar nature of the New York Jets‘ choices.
Rushing back their 40 year old QB for a 5-8 team when he’s still owed $60M+ in guarantees next season is the most Jets thing ever.
— Kyle Lindemann (@LuckIsMadeFF) December 17, 2023
Aaron Rodgers is disgusted by the #Jets offense.
Jets have taken more sacks (5) than they have total yards on offense (4) in the first half… down 24-0.
( via @MySportsUpdate) pic.twitter.com/ztvXGAgfb9
— uSTADIUM (@uSTADIUM) December 17, 2023
Even former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III expressed concern for Aaron Rodgers in a tweet, humorously alluding to Rodgers witnessing his team’s poor performance against the Dolphins. Dolphins, by the way, were without their star wide receiver, Tyreek Hill.
Aaron Rodgers on playing after watching the Jets Offensive Line today pic.twitter.com/5ZXPbXRlKj
— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) December 17, 2023
RGIII while poking fun at the situation, shared a picture of Captain America as an old man, captioning, “No, I don’t think I will.” Fans wonder if even Rodgers’ early return could’ve changed the fate of the team, that failed to make it to the playoffs for the 13th time.
New York Jets Owner Woody Johnson Gets The Runt of the Litter
Criticism from analysts and fans targeted not only the players and coaching staff but also owner Woody Johnson in the aftermath of the New York Jets’ humiliating 30-0 defeat. One fan implored, “Woody Johnson, since u bought the team, Overall the last 20Yrs have been a disaster! Why not sell & give someone else a chance at ownership. A pleading Jet Fan.”
No no we didnt let him down Woody Johnson let him down by failing to protect our QBs
— ˣ (@JJetsX) December 18, 2023
Woody Johnson, since u bought the team. Overall the last 20Yrs have been a disaster! Why not sell & give someone else a chance at ownership. A pleading Jet Fan
— Quarantine Sam (@sam_quarantine) December 17, 2023
The defeat sealed a sixth consecutive losing season for the Jets (5-9), intensifying frustrations among the fanbase. The demand is clear: something needs to change in New York.
Jay Glazer of Fox Sports revealed that Aaron Rodgers would receive medical clearance to return before the season’s end just ahead of their matchup with the Dolphins. The report aligns with Rodgers’ goal of returning for Week 16 against the Washington Commanders. Glazer stated, “Here’s the deal: Aaron Rodgers, this week, will get medical clearance to actually play as early as next week.”
While it doesn’t guarantee Rodgers’ full pre-injury health, he’s impressing with his progress. However, with the Jets’ playoff hopes crushed, the likelihood of Rodgers’ return this season appears uncertain. If he decides to return, would it be worth risking his health over a mediocre season with no protection?