Unhappy return for Rodgers as 49ers cruise to earn win over Jets

Aaron Rodgers returned to NFL action on Monday, but his comeback was marred by disappointment as the New York Jets suffered a 32-19 defeat to the San Francisco 49ers in Santa Clara.

Nearly a year after sustaining a severe Achilles tendon injury just four plays into his first game with the Jets, the veteran quarterback, now fit again, was unable to halt the 49ers' commanding performance at Levi's Stadium.

The 40-year-old completed 167 passing yards, recording one touchdown and one interception against last season's Super Bowl runners-up.

Despite the loss, Rodgers expressed his joy at being back on the field following an injury that had cast doubt on his future in the sport.

"It felt great," Rodgers remarked post-game. "I have immense gratitude for being back in pads. Many individuals contributed to my recovery, and I am truly thankful for my surgeon, my family, friends, and the training staff who supported me. I was eager to experience the physicality of the game again.

"After throwing a few passes and taking a hit, it felt good."

Although the Jets initially took a 7-3 lead in the first quarter with a short rushing touchdown from Breece Hall, the 49ers quickly established their dominance.

A 51-yard field goal by Jake Moody narrowed the Jets' lead to 7-6, and San Francisco subsequently forced a New York punt after the Jets failed to gain any yards on their next possession.

Quarterback Brock Purdy then led the 49ers on a 12-play, 67-yard drive, culminating in a two-yard rushing touchdown by Deebo Samuel, putting San Francisco ahead 13-7 after Moody's extra point.

The 49ers' defense continued to stifle the Jets, forcing another punt before Moody added his third field goal, extending the lead to 16-7 at halftime.

In the second half, San Francisco maintained their momentum, scoring a touchdown through Jordan Mason on their first drive of the third quarter, bringing the score to 23-7.

Rodgers' efforts to establish any offensive rhythm for New York continued to struggle, as the quarterback threw an interception on the subsequent drive.

San Francisco capitalized on this opportunity, with Moody successfully converting a field goal to extend the 49ers' lead to 26-7.

Rodgers, however, displayed a glimpse of his former prowess by connecting with Allen Lazard for a 36-yard touchdown, narrowing the score to 26-13 by the end of the third quarter.

Nevertheless, Moody's reliable kicking ensured that the 49ers maintained a solid lead, as he added two field goals in the fourth quarter, bringing the score to 32-13 in favor of the home team.

With the outcome of the game no longer in doubt, Rodgers was substituted in the final moments of the fourth quarter, allowing back-up quarterback Tyrod Taylor to throw a consolation touchdown with just 25 seconds left, resulting in a final score of 32-19.