Aaron Rodgers’ absence from the New York Jets’ minicamp isn’t a concern for head coach Robert Saleh. Despite making headlines, Saleh clarified Tuesday that both Rodgers and edge rusher Haason Reddick would miss the team’s two-day minicamp, resulting in unexcused absences and potential fines.
Saleh explained that Rodgers was absent due to a prior commitment he had informed the team about in advance. In contrast, Reddick’s absence is reportedly related to a contract issue.
On Wednesday, when asked if Rodgers was aware his absence would be classified as “unexcused,” Saleh responded, “I talked about it yesterday, but Aaron and I are on the exact same page. There’s no issue between Aaron — or his teammates, for that matter. So, like I said, we addressed it yesterday. It’s more of an issue for everyone outside the building than it is inside. And that’s about it.”
Saleh reiterated that Rodgers had notified the team of his plans ahead of time. However, backup quarterback Tyrod Taylor mentioned Tuesday that he only learned he would be leading the starting offense earlier that morning. This suggests that neither Rodgers nor the Jets informed Taylor or possibly other teammates about Rodgers’ absence from the minicamp sessions.
“It’s a one-on-one conversation,” Saleh said regarding his discussion with Rodgers. “That’s not something the team needed to know about.”
Rodgers, who was not disclosed to be at a specific location by Saleh, participated in the Jets’ voluntary offseason workouts and practices. This comes after his season-ending torn left Achilles tendon injury last year, which occurred just four snaps into the season.
“He’s been here for the majority of practices that weren’t mandatory,” cornerback D.J. Reed said. “I think I saw something that said Coach said A.R. had something important he had to attend. That’s our quarterback and if it’s important to him, it’s important to us. It’s really not a big deal.”
Both Rodgers and Reddick face fines of $50,861 for missing both days of minicamp practices.
