Quarterback Aaron Rodgers believes he is the New York Jets’ pied piper.
ESPN’s Wealthy Cimini reported the ex-Inexperienced Bay Packer is protecting a “watch checklist” of former teammates he needs to recruit in 2024, together with star extensive receiver Davante Adams, operating again Aaron Jones and offensive sort out David Bakhtiari.
“[The Jets are] leaning on Rodgers, the way in which the Tampa Bay Buccaneers leaned on Tom Brady in 2020,” wrote Cimini. “Brady recruited key gamers corresponding to tight finish Rob Gronkowski who helped them to a Tremendous Bowl. The Jets hope Rodgers, in Yr 2, can do the identical.”
Touchdown Adams — a six-time Professional Bowler — is a problem. The Las Vegas Raiders WR is within the second yr of a five-year, $140M contract with $65.67M assured, and a commerce would in all probability require vital draft capital.
In the meantime, Jones and Bakhitari are minimize candidates as a consequence of hefty cap hits and harm considerations. Bahktiari has solely performed in 13 video games over the previous three seasons and lately underwent season-ending knee surgical procedure. Jones has missed six video games this season with a lingering hamstring challenge.
New York may not be capable to afford all of those stars, both. Spotrac estimates it should have $15.21M in cap house in 2024, twentieth within the NFL.
Nonetheless, the group should make large strikes to finish its 13-year playoff drought — the longest within the NFL — and rebuild a clumsy offense. Coming into Week 16, the Jets (5-9) rank thirtieth within the league in factors scored (14.4) and passing yards (170 YPG).
Hoping Rodgers — a four-time MVP — can entice different achieved veterans and construct a brilliant workforce appears a bit determined, however it’s a threat the franchise should take.