Could Jets Reunite Aaron Rodgers and Two-time Super Bowl Champion WR?

The New York Jets' offense could benefit from a deep ball threat and a former Aaron Rodgers teammate remains available on the free agent market.
Sep 26, 2021; Santa Clara, California, USA; Green Bay Packers wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling
Sep 26, 2021; Santa Clara, California, USA; Green Bay Packers wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling / Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports
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The New York Jets seem like a reasonable suitor for an unsigned Super Bowl champion.

Although it's not necessarily a pressing need, it wouldn't hurt to add another proven pass-catching weapon for quarterback Aaron Rodgers and a familiar face just happens to be available. Wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling played the last two seasons for the back-to-back Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs but remains available on the free agent market heading into the back half of OTAs.

Prior to landing with the Chiefs, Valdes-Scantling spent four seasons with Rodgers in the Green Bay Packers' offense. The 2018 fifth-round pick, who played out his rookie contract in Green Bay, could fill the Jets' need for a pure deep ball threat.

The 29-year-old Valdes-Scantling carries a 17.0 yards per catch career average along with plenty of big-game experience. He made a key touchdown catch helping the Chiefs past San Francisco in Super Bowl LVIII.

Should they choose to pursue Valdes-Scantling, the Jets may be able to secure the receiver's services at a salary cap-friendly price. Former Cincinnati Bengals' starter Tyler Boyd, who is much more accomplished than Valdes-Scantling, recently accepted a one-year deal reportedly worth up to $4.5 million. Zay Jones, who was released by the Jacksonville Jaguars, will reportedly receive up to $4.25 million from the Arizona Cardinals.

Neew York has shown no hesitancy to make late offseason additions. Last August, they filled a perceived need at running back by taking a gamble on four-time Pro Bowl selection Dalvin Cook. The argument can be made that New York currently needs a receiver who can take the top off a defense.

Valdes-Scantling, along with current Jet Allen Lazard, was a member of the receiving corps that helped Rodgers win back-to-back NFL MVP awards in 2020 and 2021. His most-productive season as a pro came in 2020 when he connected with Rodgers for 690 yards and six touchdowns, including a 20.9 ypc average.


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Ralph Ventre
RALPH VENTRE

Ralph, a former college football conference administrator, brings 20 years of media experience to the New York Jets beat. Prior to concentrating on Gang Green, he covered the NCAA Football Championship Subdivision for NFL Draft Bible on FanNation. Ventre remains as an official voter for the Stats Perform FCS Top 25 and the annual legacy awards. The Fordham University graduate is a member of the Pro Football Writers of America. The veteran sports media professional resides in his native state of New Jersey.