New York Jets: Aaron Rodgers Highlights 2 Unexpected Free Agents He Advocates for the Team to Acquire

The New York Jets experienced a profoundly disappointing 2023 NFL season following the acquisition of future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers from the Green Bay Packers in exchange for a first-round pick swap, a 2023 second-round pick, and a conditional second-round pick in 2024. Despite high hopes of elevating the team to Super Bowl contention, Rodgers suffered a season-ending Achilles injury after just four snaps into the season. Consequently, the team endured a tumultuous 7-10 season, during which they faced internal turmoil and strained relations with their 2021 second overall pick, Zach Wilson, as Rodgers underwent rehabilitation in California.

Rumors circulated regarding locker room dysfunction and perceived favoritism, exacerbated by the underwhelming performances of players signed to appease Rodgers, a four-time NFL MVP. Notably, none of Rodgers’ former Green Bay Packers teammates, including Allen Lazard, Randall Cobb, Tim Boyle, Adrian Amos, and Billy Turner, met expectations while donning the Jets’ uniform. Lazard, who had a limited role during his rookie season with the Packers, struggled to replicate his prior success, posting subpar statistics in 2023.

Cobb, a close friend of Rodgers, experienced a significant decline in performance, while Boyle and Amos were released midseason and subsequently joined the Houston Texans. Turner, amidst playing on one of the NFL’s weakest offensive lines, faced challenges securing consistent playing time. Nathaniel Hackett, hired by the Jets to assist in attracting Rodgers to New York, faced ongoing criticism throughout the season. Many speculate that Hackett’s retention into the 2024 season is primarily due to Rodgers’ support rather than his coaching merits.