Jets Power Ranking: Rodgers' Rescue?

In an early peek at the 2024 season, the New York Jets - assuming a healthy return by star quarterback Aaron Rodgers - are ranked in the middle of the pack in the NFL.

As legendary rockers “The Police” might say, the New York Jets might be best served by ‘sending out an S.O.S” for some support for quarterback Aaron Rodgers heading into 2024. 

In fact, one major media network believes that the Jets ability to improve upon their 7-10 finish last season may hinge upon Gang Green’s determination to “Get Rodgers help.”

New York, according to ESPN’s “Early NFL Power Rankings 2024,” placed at No. 17 — one notch below the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and one above the Pittsburgh Steelers. 

“If Rodgers wants to make his comeback season a memorable one, he will need reinforcements on the offensive line and at wide receiver,” wrote ESPN’s Rich Cimini. “The Jets are looking to change two, possibly three spots on the line, which was among the NFL's worst in 2023. The all-important left tackle position is a major question, with Mekhi Becton heading to free agency and not likely to return. Rodgers has a terrific WR1 in Garrett Wilson, but there's a crying need for a WR2. Did someone say Davante Adams?”

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Having acquired Rodgers in an offseason trade with the Green Bay Packers, New York’s expectations were high heading into 2023. However, several key injuries — including Rodgers’ suffering a season-ending torn Achilles in Week 1 —as well as poor quarterback play from reserves Zach Wilson and Tim Boyle led to an overall disappointing season. While the team began the year 4–3, they fell victim to a five-game losing streak before three of their final five games. The Jets missed the playoffs for the thirteenth consecutive season, extending the longest active postseason drought in the NFL. They also finished below .500 for the eighth consecutive season.

Still, not all was negative on the green side of MetLife Stadium last season. The Jets received standout performances from running back Breece Hall, receiver Garrett Wilson, defensive tackle Quinnen Williams and cornerback Sauce Gardner. 

Free Agent Forecast: Jets Most Likely to Stay, Leave

With the start of the NFL year fast approaching, the Jets will unquestionably be gearing up for a championship run behind their 40-year-old quarterback. Despite possessing the No. 10 overall selection in the upcoming NFL Draft, the Jets are projected to enter the year with only $4.9 in salary cap space. As such, New York’s front office will need to perform some creative money magic to acquire the help Rodgers needs — whether it be in the form of his ex Green Bay teammate Adams, or a bona fide starting offensive tackle. 

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