Aaron Rodgers’ return from injury ended in defeat: the New York Jets lost 32-19 to the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium in California.
Rodgers was back on the field nearly a year after tearing his Achilles tendon in his Jets debut, which kept him out for the entirety of last season.
The 40-year-old quarterback, who won the NFL MVP award four times during his time with the Green Bay Packers, threw for 167 yards with one touchdown and an interception on Monday night, but it wasn’t enough to defeat last year’s Super Bowl runner-up.
“It felt great,” Rodgers said. “Really thankful to be back in the pads. So many people helped me get here.
“I am truly grateful to my surgeon, my loved ones, my friends, the staff and the training staff for helping me get back on my feet. Of course, I wanted to take an injection and feel the physical experience of it.
“Once I threw a few balls and took a shot, it felt good.”
The home team had to secure the victory without running back Christian McCaffrey, who was sent off shortly before kickoff.
The 28-year-old player did not play due to an injury to his calf and Achilles tendon.
That gave Jordan Mason an opportunity, who was starting for the first time in his third NFL season.
He finished the game with an impressive 28 carries for 147 yards and a touchdown.
Mason wasn’t the only 49ers to shine. Jake Moody also scored a franchise record with six field goals.
