Commanders vs. Jets GAMEDAY Preview: Draft Order On The Line

The New York Jets host the Washington Commanders this afternoon.

he Washington Commanders fly to the Meadowlands to face the New York Jets in a Christmas Eve matchup. This game features two teams eliminated from playoffs with an eye on the future, A.K.A the 2024 NFL Draft. 

Earlier this month, quarterback Aaron Rodgers was reportedly eyeing a return on Sunday against the Commanders. However, Rodgers said on the Pat McAfee Show that he isn't medically cleared to return and will not play.

The Jets were eliminated from playoff contention on Sunday with their 30-0 loss to the Miami Dolphins, which likely factored into his decision. New York has lost six of its last seven games, and quarterback Zach Wilson exited Sunday’s contest with a head injury.

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Wilson was replaced by Trevor Siemian, who will become the Jets' fourth different starter if Wilson isn't out of the concussion protocol vs. Washington's 32nd-ranked defense.

The Commanders also suffered a defeat last week, a 28-20 loss to the Los Angeles Rams. The Commanders sit last in the NFC East division, behind the 10-4 Eagles, the 10-4 Dallas Cowboys and 5-9 New York Giants. 

Nearing the bottom of the NFC conference rankings with three games left, the Commanders playoffs hopes are dead.

A bright spot for Washington this season had been quarterback Sam Howell. 

Last week, Howell had arguably his worst game of the season, completing just 11 of 26 passes for 102 yards, a touchdown and an interception. Howell was benched for Jacoby Brissett.

Coach Ron Rivera detailed that he decided to bench Howell in order to "protect" him, but as a result, speculation is now rife about who will be the starter for the rest of the season.

Sam Howell Future Speculation: 'Doesn't Mean Anything Right Now'

RECORDS: Washington Commanders (4-10) at New York Jets (5-9)

ODDS: Washington is a 3-point underdog vs. the Jets

GAME TIME: Sunday, December 24th, 2023 at 1 p.m. ET

LOCATION: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey

TV/RADIO: CBS, 105.3 The Fan

THE FINAL WORD: Howell on Brissett: 

"I've picked up a lot from him throughout the entire year ever since he's gotten here and just the way he's supported me and just the things he's taught me. He played well," Howell said. "He did a good job. He was dealing [the] football and giving guys a chance. It was fun to watch and he did a good job.”