The New York Jets have taken an interesting approach in their pursuit of a potential franchise-altering quarterback this off-season. While other teams have been making deals, the Jets have taken a wait-and-see approach, seemingly focused on potentially acquiring Aaron Rodgers in a trade with the Green Bay Packers. It’s a bold move by the Jets, one that could pay off in a big way if they are able to land the three-time MVP.
Rodgers is coming off a season where he threw just 26 touchdowns against 12 interceptions and the Pack missed the playoffs, but the Jets still appear to have high hopes on acquiring him. The 37-year-old would bring a level of talent, star power and been-there, check-out-my-pile-of-MVPs leadership that the Jets are sorely lacking. If he commits to working with players in the offseason, he could have an enormous impact on the franchise immediately.
The Jets have a young defense that speaks to being a true contender. Defensive rookie of the year cornerback Sauce Gardner, linebacker C.J. Mosley and defensive tackle Quinnen Williams were all named to an All-Pro team. They allowed an average of just 18.6 points per game last year, fourth-best in the league. The problem is they scored an average of just 17.4 points a game (29th out of 32 team in the league). QB was the issue, namely former second overall draft pick Wilson struggling to develop.
With that said, the Jets have been patient in their pursuit of Rodgers. Former free agent Derek Carr met with the franchise twice about trying to turn a very promising 7-10 team into a playoff team, but the Jets opted to not settle and pursue Rodgers. Of course, time will tell whether that was a mistake or not.
The Jets have been without a playoff appearance for over a decade, so the decision to pursue Rodgers is one that could be worth the risk. If Rodgers doesn’t happen, then there are backup options that includes Jimmy Garoppolo to even a wild franchise overhaul featuring a massive trade for Lamar Jackson. The next step might not be too much of a step down.
Right now, the Jets are waiting for Rodgers to make up his mind about the future, while working with Green Bay on terms that could make a deal work if it comes to that. If he does decide to come to New York, then all of this will have been worth it. The Jets have taken a bold move by taking a wait-and-see approach, and only time will tell if it pays off.
