SI's Conor Orr Tabs Gang Green as a Top-tier Team in NFL Power Rankings

The Sports Illustrated writer views the anticipated Aaron Rodgers addition as a game-changer that lifts the Jets over Buffalo and Miami

Dan Powers / USA TODAY NETWORK

Conor Orr has listed the New York Jets as the top team in the AFC East division.

In his most-recent National Football League Power Rankings, which were released on March 20, the Sports Illustrated senior writer placed Gang Green at No. 5 overall citing the Aaron Rodgers Effect.

Joining the Buffalo Bills and Miami Dolphins as AFC East franchises in Orr’s Top 10, the Jets ranked behind only two AFC teams - the Super Bowl XLVII champion Kansas City Chiefs and the AFC North division-winning Cincinnati Bengals.

5.  New York Jets 

“I’m going to get skewered for this, but I’ll stand by it. In August 2020, I didn’t think the Buccaneers would be that much better with Tom Brady. We learn from our mistakes. Aaron Rodgers, whenever he arrives, is going to come in motivated and legacy-minded. I think he’ll be a consummate pro and teammate to end his career on a high note. Helping in that regard will be the presence of Allen Lazard, who was one of my favorite signings of the offseason.” - Conor Orr

.@ConorOrr looks at the moves every team has made so far in free agency (and one QB trade a team will make soon!) to size up the league in our latest power rankings https://t.co/InHUo0q4nq

— The MMQB (@theMMQB) March 21, 2023

The Jets’ stock has been on the rise since Rodgers, a four-time NFL MVP, expressed his intention to play in New York during a featured appearance on the Pat McAfee Show. Gang Green lacked adequate production at the quarterback position last year and many view the 39-year old Rodgers as an instant upgrade.

Before Rodgers can officially land in New York, the Packers and the Jets must agree on a trade compensation package for the Super Bowl XLV MVP.

One spot behind the Jets, the three-time defending AFC East champion Bills sit at No. 6 in Orr’s power rankings followed by the Dolphins follow in seventh place.

Buffalo has posted a 15-3 record in AFC East games over the past three seasons with two of the losses coming courtesy of Gang Green. 

In 2022, Buffalo ranked second amongst NFL leaders in total offense (397.6) while Robert Saleh's Jets boasted the league’s fourth-ranked defense (311.1).

Bryce Huff strips Bills QB Josh Allen in the Jets' 20-17 win at MetLife Stadium :: Chris Pedota / USA TODAY NETWORK

Although pundits like Orr see a possible regression in Buffalo, Sean McDermott’s team has made the playoffs five times in his six years at the helm. Bills quarterback Josh Allen was amongst the top-five finishers in the 2022 NFL MVP voting.

The Jets and Dolphins split their two games last season, but the latter prevailed in an 11-6 decision with a playoff berth on the line in Week 18. Miami, which finished 9-8 overall, lost quarterback Tua Tagovailoa for its last two regular season games and its wildcard contest due to multiple head injuries. 

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