The New York Jets entered the 2024 NFL season with high stakes after acquiring Aaron Rodgers, a four-time NFL MVP, in a trade with the Green Bay Packers before the 2023 NFL Draft. This move raised expectations of a potential Super Bowl run for the Jets. To bolster their new quarterback, they also brought in several of his former Packers teammates, including wide receiver Randall Cobb.
Before acquiring Rodgers, the Jets had signed free agent wide receiver Allen Lazard in an effort to entice the future Hall of Fame quarterback to join their team. With two of his preferred targets now on the roster, Rodgers and the Jets were optimistic about their competitive prospects for the 2023 season.
However, things did not unfold as expected.
The New York Jets Struggled Without Quarterback Aaron Rodgers
Unfortunately, Rodgers suffered a devastating Achilles injury just four snaps into his tenure with the Jets, derailing what had been a promising and optimistic offseason. The four-time MVP was sidelined for the entire season, leaving Zach Wilson to take up the quarterback duties.
Adding to their woes, both Randall Cobb and Allen Lazard failed to meet expectations set when they were signed. Cobb managed only five receptions for 39 yards and a touchdown throughout the season, while Lazard recorded just 23 receptions for 311 yards and a touchdown. It marked the worst professional season for both players.
Since then, Cobb has taken a role with the SEC Network, hinting at a career pivot while remaining open to NFL opportunities. On the other hand, Lazard is embarking on the second year of a hefty four-year, $44 million contract he inked with the Jets before the 2023 season. Despite his history as a favorite of Rodgers, he has not garnered strong support from fans and finds himself low on the team’s depth chart considering his salary.
With New York’s revamped offense and Lazard’s underwhelming performance last season, one NFL analyst suggests that the Jets should explore trading him before the regular season commences.
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