Aaron Rodgers inches toward softening return commitment

Aaron Rodgers has publicly exuded confidence about his chances of returning this season, despite countless examples of why that's essentially impossible. Numerous fans have fully bought in on seeing him again this season. However, the Jets quarterback might be softening that stance based on what was said this week.

In a clip of an interview with Peyton and Eli Manning, via ESPN's "Get Up," the quarterback spoke about his return in less certain terms than he had in the past. Here's how he put it:

"[00:00:07] I think for me you always have to set a goal, otherwise you're kind of crazy. And so the goal is to definitely come back. There's a lot of factors that go into that, but I got to get to a point where I can protect myself and do what I do. ... Just having the mindset with my rehab every day to hopefully come back at some point. [00:00:45]"

Zach Wilson claws Jets back into playoff contention without Aaron Rodgers

Zach Wilson at Philadelphia Eagles v New York Jets

While Aaron Rodgers didn't abandon his goal of returning this season, he did allow a little bit of doubt to creep into the equation. Don't tell the Jets that, however, as they've done everything in their power to remain ready for No. 8's return. Instead of shrinking without their quarterback, the team now sits at 3-3 and one game back of the Buffalo Bills.

Thanks to the team's Week 1 win against Josh Allen, the Jets also have the tie-breaker for the moment. Meaning, if Zach Wilson can get the Jets tied with the Bills, they would take the lead in the division rankings. Of course, that still leaves the Miami Dolphins to contend with.

That said, the Dolphins have proven to be mortal after taking their second loss of the season in arguably blowout fashion to Jalen Hurts on Sunday Night Football. Still, even if the Aaron Rodgers-less Jets can't find a way to overtake the Dolphins, it doesn't mean it's over. That still leaves the Wild Card, which allows for three teams from each conference to make the playoffs.

Teams that can remain at .500 by the time of the playoffs usually have a shot at getting into the postseason as late as Week 17 or even Week 18. Even that would be a massive victory for a franchise that hasn't been in the playoffs in more than a decade.

Will the Jets make the playoffs even without Aaron Rodgers?

If any of the above quotes are used, credit Get Up and the Manningcast and H/T Sportskeeda.