In June, Aaron Rodgers' absence from the New York Jets' mandatory minicamp raised eyebrows, as head coach Robert Saleh termed it an "unexcused absence." According to SNY, the real reason for Rodgers missing the minicamp was a pre-planned trip to Egypt.
Rodgers, who is heading into his second season with the Jets at 40, had booked this trip while recovering from his 2023 Achilles tear. It was a personal reward to look forward to during a challenging phase in his career. Rodgers, known for his interest in overseas travel, has a particular admiration for Egyptian culture.
The former Packers quarterback initially believed that the Jets' offseason schedule would be over before his trip. However, the minicamp dates, which were finalized later, conflicted with his travel plans. Despite being informed of the scheduling clash, the Jets announced his absence only at the camp's start, with Saleh mentioning a "personal event of importance."
Jets owner Woody Johnson downplayed Rodgers' absence, noting his extensive participation in the voluntary spring workouts before the minicamp. Several Jets players echoed this sentiment, expressing no concern over his absence and emphasizing his active involvement in organized team activities.
The Jets' public handling of Rodgers' absence aimed to avoid setting a precedent for missing mandatory sessions for personal travel. Despite the minicamp controversy, Rodgers is expected to be back in full form for the start of the 2024 training camp, with rookies reporting on July 18 and veterans on July 23.
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