The San Francisco 49ers are set to face a significant challenge in their season opener against the New York Jets and quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who is returning from an Achilles injury that limited him to just four plays last season. Coach Kyle Shanahan has revamped the defense under new coordinator Nick Sorensen to recapture the team's past dominance. Defensive players, including Leonard Floyd and Charvarius Ward, emphasize the need for a focused and prepared approach against Rodgers, acknowledging his ability to exploit any mistakes. The matchup reignites a longstanding rivalry, as Rodgers was famously overlooked by the 49ers in the 2005 draft. This game marks a pivotal moment for both teams, with the 49ers eager to demonstrate their defensive improvements and Rodgers looking to prove his resilience. The anticipation surrounding this game is heightened by the historical context and personal stakes for Rodgers, who grew up as a 49ers fan.