Can the Jets support Aaron Rodgers in making a championship run when he joins?
When the Jets and Packers eventually finalise terms for the trade of Aaron Rodgers, New York will then set their sights on ensuring the veteran QB has the best possible supporting cast for a run at the Super Bowl title. Given Rodgers’ age, the Jets will be all-in on the present and should be prepared to take bigger risks to get the stars that they want on their roster.
The LA Rams are currently feeling the after-effects of such a strategy, although I’m sure nobody within the organisation would be handing back their rings to be in a better position now.
It is widely assumed that the Jets will have to give up one of their back-to-back second round picks in 2023, as well as some future picks to land Rodgers. The 2024 picks will likely be conditional on Jets performance and Rodgers not choosing to retire after one year in New York. This leaves the team with the 13th overall pick, and either the 42nd or 43rd pick and around $10 million in cap space to pick up elite talent.
Top Priority
Protecting their prized signal caller should be a top priority for the Jets. Mike White took some punishing blows last season, and the team will do everything to ensure that their 39-year-old star does not suffer the same hits.
The tackle positions will be top of the agenda for New York, as the health of Mekhi Becton and Duane Brown are concerns for the team. Either Paris Johnson Jr or Broderick Jones would make for a great pick to develop under elite talent and provide much needed cover at the position. Peter Skoronski could also be an option at 13 and would help bolster the interior due to his versatility across the offensive line.
Running Game
When Rodgers arrives in the Big Apple he will not be short of offensive weapons. Garrett Wilson, Corey Davis and Allen Lazard headline an incredible receiving corps for the Jets. Breece Hall showed some real promise as their starting running-back before his 2022 season was cut short by injury.
Whilst there is promising news regarding his recovery, the team could look to add to their running game with their second-round pick.
With Bijan Robinson already off the board, Jahmyr Gibbs would make for another excellent dual-threat rusher in the New York offense. If the team felt that he was too similar to Breece Hall, Devon Achane’s powerful, lightning-quick running style could complement Hall upon his return.
Defensive Pick?
The Jets’ defence nearly carried the team to the playoffs last season, despite their offensive struggles. Almost all of the key players on the defence are returning in 2023, with LB Quincy Williams the latest to sign a contract extension.
Lamarcus Joyner has hit free agency and the Jets could look to take a safety with their first-round pick if the offensive lineman of their choice is not available. Brian Branch is the standout, versatile safety in this draft class and should be available at 13 for New York.
Jets fans should be very excited for the 2023 season. There is no reason to doubt that Aaron Rodgers will be on the roster by the second day of the draft, and he will already be surrounded by young, elite talent. Add in some smart draft picks and this team will be a contender this year.
