Using digital rotary encoders for HID input using the Joystick library

I have been working on a small switch panel for flight sims, but I wanted to use the CYT1100 Digital Rotary encoders to move instruments in-game. I have the code set up to press a certain joystick button for each pulse. The code seems to work fine, but I might have some issues with hardware.

Components:

• Arduino Micro
• CYT1100 Digital Rotary Encoders
• Acer Aspire E5 (Windows 10)

I get serial monitor outputs when I move the board, but the rotary encoders aren't plugged in. The values are around 2 to -2 but don't change depending on the encoders. The joystick buttons are getting almost randomly pressed with no certain pattern. I was wondering if anyone has had issues like this in the past or if I'm missing something.

Here's my code:

#include <Joystick.h>

#define outputA 2
#define outputB 3


int counter = 0;
int aState;
int aLastState;

void setup() {
  Joystick.begin();
  pinMode(2, INPUT);
  pinMode(3, INPUT);
}

void loop() {
  aState = digitalRead(outputA);
  if (aState != aLastState) {
    if (digitalRead(outputB) != aState) {      // Clockwise
      Joystick.pressButton(1);
      delay(10);
      Joystick.releaseButton(1);
      counter ++;
    } else {                   // Counterclockwise
      Joystick.pressButton(2);
      delay(10);
      Joystick.releaseButton(2);
      counter --;
    }
    Serial.print("Counter:  ");
    Serial.println(counter);
  }
  aLastState = aState;
}