The New York Jets could be spreading their wings, taking to the air, and landing on their first AFC title in 21 years.
With a four-time MVP in QB Aaron Rodgers, a top five defense and a bit of luck, the Jets are looking good to finish with a 13-win record this campaign.
They do not have the best starting schedule, but all their games are likely to be close affairs, especially in week four when they take on the Patriots, a team they have not beaten since 2015.
But, Rodgers is a seasoned winner, leading the Packers to 13 wins or more between 2019 through to 2021 – before an iffy 8-9 record last time out. With a star-studded offense and defense, the Jets are no longer seen as surprise packages. Wide receiver Garrett Wilson will look to fly with Rodgers pulling the strings, while DT Quinnen Williams and CB Sauce Gardner have superstar emblazoned on their chests.
Looking to land their first playoff berth in 10 years, the schedule looks more brutal on paper than on the field. The first four games will be instrumental in securing a Superbowl run, with the New Yorkers taking on the Eagles, the Kansas City Chiefs and facing a difficult trip to Dallas before a bye, but they should live up to expectations.
Christmas will also bring no ‘easy’ gifts with the Commanders at home and the Browns away. A preseason loss to the Cleveland outfit last week should shake off the cobwebs and will act as a learning curve.
But with 6 primetime games this campaign they are outside punts for a 14-win season. They will likely finish in the double digits, but there is a long way to go to the playoffs. They sport an over/under 9.5 wins and are tipped to make the playoffs and an unlikely run to Superbowl LVIII at the Allegiant Arena in what will be an historic day for Las Vegas.
The biggest obstacle to a title-winning run will be maintaining a relatively injury-free season, and a culture shift towards winning.
Look at Breece Hall tearing his ACL, with the potential Rookie of the Year tag looming.
Coach Robert Saleh did not have the best of starts to his Jets’ career but after a decent showing last season and a host of up-and-coming stars, to blend with Rodgers, it could be time for a Jets revival.
Their off-season maneuvring could backfire, handing the Packers a second and sixth round draft pick as well as the chance of losing OT Broderick James. But alongside the 39-year-old Rodgers they picked up smart moves with receiver Allen Lazard joining from the Green Bay side.
Barring an injury avalanche, and the Rodgers’ short-term plan in place the Jets could well boast a decent record, and even be outsiders to take home the whole shebang.
