Aaron Rodgers' Season Ends with Achilles Tear, Sparking Controversy over Artificial Turf

New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers will miss the rest of the 2023 NFL season after suffering a left Achilles tear during his debut game against the Buffalo Bills. The injury occurred on just his fourth play, and Rodgers will require surgery. The 39-year-old, who was expected to be a key player for the Jets, is the second oldest player in the league and this was supposed to be his 19th season. Backup quarterback Zach Wilson led the team to an overtime victory after Rodgers' injury. There is speculation about the role of the new field turf at MetLife Stadium, but data from the past eight years shows no difference in the rate of Achilles injuries on natural grass and synthetic surfaces.