The New York Jets are entering their second year in the NFL with quarterback Aaron Rodgers. However, the team’s biggest problems remain unchanged and will be difficult to solve.
As is well known, the Jets were the big story of the summer of 2023 with the sensational signing of quarterback – and “general manager” – Aaron Rodgers, who also ensured that a number of his buddies also found their way to New Jersey, including wide receiver Allen Lazard and Randall Cobb or running back Dalvin Cook. All mistakes.
Nevertheless, they convinced themselves all summer that they were now a title contender, after all, they now had a legendary quarterback, but he only lasted four plays before his Achilles tendon tore. The season was basically over in Week 1. However, to blame the Rodgers injury alone would be misguided, because it ultimately ignored the major problems of the offensive line, which would probably have given Rodgers a hard time anyway.
We also know, at least since the open statements from ex-Jets wide receiver Mecole Hardman, who took a beating, that the team’s coaching staff in the offensive area – led by Rodgers’ buddy Nathaniel Hackett – was like a pile of chickens. In the podcast “The Pivot” he said: “It’s Aaron’s show. Let Aaron do what he does.” When Aaron went down, it was like we didn’t know what to do anymore.” And that’s what it looked like from the outside.
New York Jets: Best result since 2015
Thanks to an undoubtedly strong defense, the Jets then rumbled to a 7-10 season like the year before, which incidentally remains their best result since 2015 (10-6). We’ve been waiting for the playoffs since 2010. So what has to happen for things to finally get better in 2024?
Aaron Rodgers returns for a second season and, at 40 years old – he’ll be 41 in December – and after tearing his Achilles tendon, he’ll try again to prove that he’s actually still one of the better quarterbacks in the league. To make this possible we still need a better offensive line. Left tackle Mekhi Becton, who was supposed to play right tackle after previously disappointing at left, is now a free agent and it would be surprising if anyone wanted to keep him.
At the same time, the question arises as to whether Alijah Vera-Tucker will continue to play right tackle in the future or whether he will play guard again when the team is new and everyone is fit. In addition, the Jets have to decide by May whether the fifth-year option of his contract will be exercised or not. Center Connor McGovern will become a free agent, as will offensive tackle Duane Brown (5 games in 2023) and Rodgers buddy Billy Turner. Offensive tackle is a major construction site for the Jets, who would essentially have to revamp their entire O-line.
And then the question arises as to who Rodgers should actually throw to. With the exception of Garrett Wilson, none of the numerous passing stations proved to be reliable. Not even Lazard, who has even been given a four-year contract – including a fully guaranteed salary (10 million) for the coming season. Lazard had a tremendous 23 receptions last year – in 14 games. The remaining squad options are not worth mentioning.
And you also need a new backup quarterback if you want to prevent a disaster like 2023. Even owner Woody Johnson has already publicly emphasized this.
New York Jets: Several defenders on the move
On defense, the Jets could lose both starting safeties, as well as roster depth at all levels of the defense. The focus is particularly on edge rusher Bryce Huff. The 2020 undrafted free agent is hoping for a payday that the Jets probably won’t offer him. But then a replacement has to be found here too.
The Jets hold the 10th pick in the draft and also have eight total picks, two in the first two days and three in Round 7. That’s not a lot of capital. In addition, they currently have just $20.7 million in cap space – $16.1 million if there are at least 51 players on the roster. However, they can still get a lot out of it, at least on the front.
With contract restructurings for CJ Mosley, Quinnen Williams, John Franklin-Myers, Lazard and Quincy Williams as well as releases of CJ Uzomah and Tyler Conklin and a trade of Zach Wilson – good luck with that! – it is entirely possible to increase the cap space for 2024 to a sum between 70 and 80 million dollars.
What you do with it then remains the big question. When it comes to the offensive line, a run on Cowboys free agent Tyron Smith is conceivable, as is Mike Onwenu from the Patriots, also to wipe out a long-time rival. Also possible, but certainly not recommended: David Bakhtiari, who could possibly become a cap victim for the Packers.
That one is an even bigger Rodgers buddy than anyone else. Rodgers even officiated Bakhtiari’s wedding in 2022! It is quite possible that GM Rodgers will take action here again. However, it’s worth noting that Bakhtiari has missed 42 games due to injury since the end of 2020 and likely wouldn’t provide the stability the Jets sorely need. The draft is also an opportunity to find a new tackle.
NFL Free Agency: Receiver market manageable
When it comes to possible new receivers, things are looking pretty bleak for all teams in the market. Essentially all viable wide receivers on the market have either been franchise tagged or have their contracts extended (Mike Evans). That leaves wildcard Calvin Ridley and Hollywood Brown, who felt like he dropped more passes from Lamar Jackson than he caught. At least he is fast.
Defensively, you shouldn’t worry too much. Head coach Robert Saleh is still there, as is defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, who is in demand in the league. This part of the coaching staff stands for competence and should put together a strong defense again next season.
Meanwhile, The Athletic recently reported that Saleh failed in his attempt to seek upgrades to his offensive coaching staff. Possible candidates preferred to go somewhere else or waved them away anyway. The danger seems too great that there could be a major upheaval in the coaching staff in 2025. Already in 2024 it is not far-fetched that Saleh and Co. are only still there because Rodgers took a liking to them.
And in the end, that remains the Jets’ biggest problem: “It’s Aaron’s show. Let Aaron do what he does.” That can work out well, but it’s not particularly likely.
Marcus Blumberg
2024-03-08 23:25:40
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