Aaron Rodgers is the big talking point - but it continues to be an off-season with plenty of fascinating moves for the New York Jets away from just the quarterback position.
With Rodgers confirming his desire to join the Jets, all that remains is for a trade agreement to be reached with the Green Bay Packers to signal an exciting new era at MetLife Stadium.
Rodgers would inherit an offence already boasting some exciting young weapons such as Garrett Wilson and Breece Hall, whilst he could yet be bolstered by big-name free agency signings including Ezekiel Elliott and Odell Beckham Jr.
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According to ESPN, Elliott has narrowed down his options with the Jets amongst three teams he could join along with the Philadelphia Eagles and Cincinnati Bengals.
It has also been reported by SNYtv that there is mutual interest to bring Beckham Jr back to New York with Aaron Rodgers keen to play with him. Whilst a move is not imminent, particularly with the Rodgers deal not yet done, there is a possibility the former Giants standout will be in green if they can find a financial package which works for both sides.
There have been other fascinating deals, with Elijah Moore traded to the Cleveland Browns, Mecole Hardman arriving from the Kansas City Chiefs and Allen Lazard joining from the Packers. There could be more moves, with Corey Davis amongst those who may move on.
With that in mind, here’s a look at how the New York Jets’ new-look offence might look on week one of the new season with three huge additions to the roster.
Quarterback
Starter: Aaron Rodgers. Back-up: Zach Wilson
Although Jets fans won’t believe it until it’s done, all signs point towards them getting their man after Aaron Rodgers’ public declaration that he wants to head to New York.
His arrival will mean Zach Wilson being pushed to the back-up role, whilst the departure of Mike White for Miami leaves Chris Streveler as third string, although a late-round draft pick could be used to compete for that role.
Running Backs
Breece Hall, Ezekiel Elliott, Michael Carter and Zonovan Knight
Hall was electric as a rookie last year before suffering a season-ending ACL injury in week seven. He’ll return with high hopes of picking up where he left off, although Elliott could be a fascinating addition to a backfield with plenty of talent.
Michael Carter has demonstrated an ability to be a reliable back who can pick up tough yards in his two seasons with the Jets, whilst Knight impressed late on last season after Hall’s injury.
After an underwhelming few years since his big contract with the Cowboys, the chance to join a young backfield with plenty of options could be a perfect spot for Zeke to play a role in heavy rotation and hit some home run plays for the Jets.
Wide Receivers
Odell Beckham Jr, Allen Lazard, Garrett Wilson, Mecole Hardman, Denzel Mims.
Garrett Wilson was another of the rookies to star for the Jets last year, and the arrival of Rodgers will bring huge excitement about his progress.
Away from that, there will be much-change in terms of the Jets’ receiving options. Mecole Hardman arrives as a real deep-threat, plus Lazard is a favourite of Rodgers from their time together in Green Bay.
If Odell Beckham Jr joins, he would hope to replicate his performance from Super Bowl LVI before suffering the cruel ACL injury that ruled him out of last season. Injury is clearly the big concern but, like with Elliott, the Jets could provide an intriguing option for him to make big plays without the pressure of carrying the entire load.
Should Beckham Jr arrive, that would open the door to Corey Davis’ departure. Watch out for Denzel Mims, too, who has struggled for game time since being a second round draft pick in 2020 but could benefit from a new offensive co-ordinator and quarterback to make the most out of his talents.
Tight Ends
Tyler Conklin and CJ Uzomah
After two free agency additions last off-season, it’s unlikely there will be much change at tight end amongst the Jets’ offensive upheaval.
Uzomah in particular will be hoping to make a bigger impact in his second season, although Conklin made his presence felt as a big target and will be looking to take another leap in the new season.
Offensive Line
Starters: Mekhi Becton, Laken Tomlinson, Wes Schweitzer, Alijah Vera-Tucker, Max Mitchell.
Mekhi Becton has had a nightmare start to his NFL career with injuries but has trimmed down and looks raring to go after recovering from a torn ACL.
Alijah Vera-Tucker’s return from injury will be a major boost after he showcased his adaptability across a number of positions last year, although he’ll most likely slot back in at guard opposite Laken Tomlinson.
The Jets could well look to tackle and/or center in the draft. They recently added Trystan Colon Wes Schweitzer, who could both compete for the center spot and will provide depth at guard.
Max Mitchell, a fourth round draft pick, was a pleasant surprise at right tackle last season in the games he played as a rookie before his season was cut short by blood clots. The Jets will feel comfortable with him in the line-up if the right player doesn’t come their way on draft night.
