'Scary' Aaron Rodgers Bold Prediction: Bills at Jets

New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers' comments reveal his thoughts on his own play heading into Week 1 against the Buffalo Bills.

The New York Jets' acquisition of future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers has thrusted them into the spotlight and, thus, the homes of football fans across the country.

This newfound attention landed the Jets the Week 1 Monday Night Football game, where they will host the Buffalo Bills.

Rodgers’ pedigree speaks for itself, but there’s no guarantee that his age-39 season will be as fruitful as New York would hope. Last year, Rodgers threw for 3,695 yards, 26 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. It was a marked step back from the four-time MVP, and he set career lows in quarterback rating (41.3) and passer rating (91.1).

An upgrade from last year’s Jets quarterback play? Sure, but a repeat of last season likely means they fall short of lofty expectations. Rodgers spoke to ESPN on Thursday about his feelings on the new season.

“I’m not looking at this like I have to bounce back or do anything [special],” Rodgers said. “I just have to play the way I know how to play.”

New York has forced open a Super Bowl window and has spent the offseason trying to support Rodgers in every way possible. The Jets’ elite defense is expected to return, perhaps with additional turnover luck. Reinforcements like receivers Allen Lazard and Mecole Hardman, along with running back Dalvin Cook, should make life more comfortable for Rodgers.

Leaning on a quality supporting cast could be the quickest way to return Rodgers to prominence. A motivated Rodgers may be lethal in a competitive AFC East.

“I’ve been working my a– off for the last six months to try to put a better product on the field than last year,” he continued. “And I expect to.”

Monday’s opener will give Rodgers a chance to prove that he’s still got some bullets left in the chamber.

Buffalo, on the other hand, will be tasked with setting the tone in a division it is favored to win. Playing spoiler in Rodgers’ debut would be a reminder of what to expect from a division that the Bills have won for three consecutive seasons.