Aaron Rodgers is no stranger to the spotlight, but after Monday’s tough loss to the San Francisco 49ers, the future Hall of Famer knows he’s got to step up. The New York Jets‘ prized quarterback didn’t sugarcoat his performance, making it clear that the team has to improve-and it starts with him.

“We just didn’t have it tonight,”Rodgers told reporters, owning up to his struggles after a 32-19 defeat.“No excuses. We’ve got to play better, and I’ve got to play better.” It was the kind of straight talk fans expect from the four-time MVP, but the disappointment was palpable.

Rodgers wasn’t afraid to admit he left some plays on the field. “I missed a couple throws I usually make,” he confessed, hinting at a rusty performance. After missing most of the 2023 season with a torn Achilles, Rodgers’ return to the gridiron was highly anticipated, but the road back is proving to be bumpy.

Wide receiver Garrett Wilson didn’t hold back when summing up the game. “They whipped our ass,” he bluntly stated. Wilson’s frustration mirrored that of many Jets fans who were expecting a statement game against one of theNFL’s top defenses, but instead, they were handed a reality check.

The night wasn’t without its bright spots. Rodgers orchestrated a touchdown drive in the first quarter, giving the Jets a brief lead. But after that, it was all San Francisco. The 49ers defense, led by Nick Bosa and Fred Warner, kept Rodgers in check, forcing him into a subpar 13-of-21 passing performance for 167 yards, one touchdown, and one costly interception.

Rodgers’ flash of brilliance overshadowed by missed chances in Jets’ loss

Rodgers’ signature moment came on a vintage play when he caught the defense offsides and quickly found Allen Lazard for a touchdown. But even that couldn’t overshadow the missed opportunities, particularly a fourth-quarter incompletion that sealed the Jets’ fate.

By the time backup quarterback Tyrod Taylor entered the game in garbage time, it was clear that the night belonged to the 49ers. Taylor managed to connect on a late touchdown, but the outcome had long been decided.

San Francisco’s balanced attack kept Rodgers and the Jets off the field for large stretches, and the 49ers’ defense looked every bit as dominant as advertised. It was a rough way for Rodgers to shake off the rust in his return to regular-season action.

Looking ahead, Rodgers knows the pressure is on. The Jets face the Tennessee Titans next, and the 40-year-old quarterback is eager to put this loss behind him and show that his best football is still ahead. As Rodgers put it, “It’s on me. I’ve got to be better. And I will be.”