In a surprising turn of events, Aaron Rodgers revealed on Tuesday that he had requested the New York Jets not to activate him from the injured list when he was cleared to practice following his ruptured Achilles injury. The Jets' head coach, Robert Saleh, defended this decision, claiming it was a "net positive" for the team. Rodgers spoke about his request during his paid appearance on "The Pat McAfee Show," stating that he didn't want to practice at the expense of someone else losing their roster spot. He explained that he was aware of how the system worked and didn't want to be the reason for another player's dismissal.

The fullback, Nick Bawden, was the player in question who would have been cut to make room for Rodgers. However, Bawden was later signed back to the practice squad. Rodgers took the initiative to reach out to Bawden personally to explain his feelings about the situation. Bawden expressed his appreciation for Rodgers' gesture, stating that it meant a lot to him. He described Rodgers as candid, honest, and not surprised by his actions. Bawden also dismissed any perception of Rodgers being selfish and wanting to be activated as another achievement in his comeback story, calling it "far from the truth."

Bawden's salary for the season was guaranteed since he was on the roster at the beginning of the season, so he didn't lose out on any money due to these events. Saleh further explained the decision, attributing it to himself and the team's general manager, Joe Douglas. Saleh clarified that Rodgers had expressed concern about taking up someone's roster spot, but the team had roster flexibility and the ability to activate him, so they did it. Saleh emphasized that they would always do what is best for the organization, and having Rodgers on the team was considered a positive addition.

When asked about what this unselfish gesture revealed about Rodgers, Saleh dismissed any preconceived notions and external narratives about the quarterback. He praised Rodgers, describing him as one of the most thoughtful human beings he had been around. Saleh also mentioned that Rodgers loved being on the practice field, bringing energy and enthusiasm to the team.

Rodgers defended his reasoning for not needing to be activated, stating that he didn't believe he needed practice to continue his rehabilitation. He expressed disappointment at being overruled and emphasized that he had immediately contacted Bawden to make it clear that the decision did not come from him.

In response to his critics, Rodgers made a comparison to the controversy surrounding his vaccination status, suggesting that those who criticize him should also reveal their own vaccination status before passing judgment. He argued that knowing someone's vaccination status would provide context for their comments. Rodgers expressed frustration with the narrative surrounding him and his belief in medical freedom, suggesting that his critics were influenced by puppet masters who had an agenda against him.

Despite the controversy surrounding his activation, Rodgers remained focused on his comeback and his commitment to the Jets. He teased throughout the season that he aimed to return from his Achilles injury and expressed his hope to play for the Jets for at least two more years.

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