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The Jets are just a fortnight away from facing off with the Bills in what promises to be a thrilling kick-off to the 2023 season. With the acquisition of Aaron Rodgers, the vibes surrounding the team have skyrocketed, and expectations are higher than ever. However, there are still some ambiguities that need to be resolved. Let’s dive into the key questions looming over the Jets as they transition from training camp to the regular season.
1. Is the Running Game Set to Face Initial Hiccups?
The Jets’ running game has faced significant setbacks this summer. Breece Hall was largely absent from training camp and didn’t participate in the preseason. Dalvin Cook, a recent addition, has yet to make his practice debut with the Jets.
The offensive line is also struggling with Duane Brown just returning to practice, and Alijah Vera-Tucker and Laken Tomlinson missing some time. The unit is yet to undertake team drills together, which could lead to some initial struggles.
Jets coach Robert Saleh stated, “It’s going to take time to mesh all that together, new O-line and all that good stuff,” He added, “I have faith in the fact that we’ll get it going sooner rather than later.”
Rodgers’ presence will undoubtedly help iron out some of these issues early in the season, but the Jets will need a robust running game to meet their high ambitions.
2. Does the Jets Secondary Have Adequate Depth?
While the Jets’ starting secondary may rank among the NFL’s best, there are concerns regarding the depth at both cornerback and safety. Sauce Gardner and D.J. Reed form an impressive cornerback tandem, but there’s not much backup strength. Brandin Echols, a competent backup cornerback, is suspended for Week 1. Beyond him, the waters get murky.
If the Jets can stay healthy in this area, it won’t be a problem, but any injuries could lead to headaches down the line.
3. Who Will Emerge as the Main Receiver After Garrett Wilson?
Wilson seems primed to have a sensational season catching Rodgers’ throws. However, the rest of the receiving group is somewhat of an enigma. Allen Lazard, the team’s significant free-agent signing, has been underwhelming in camp and is nursing a shoulder injury. Living up to his $44 million price tag could be challenging.
In the slot, Randall Cobb has surpassed Mecole Hardman. While Cobb is clearly a Rodgers’ favorite, there are valid questions about what the 33-year-old has left in the tank. The sudden retirement of Corey Davis has left the receiving room short-handed. It remains to be seen who will emerge from the roster bubble and whether they can contribute effectively.
4. Can the Jets Defense Hold Its Ground Against the Run?
The Jets’ defense is unquestionably equipped to excel against the pass. The defensive line is primed to harass the quarterback, and the secondary is robust. However, their performance against strong running teams is yet to be seen. Al Woods has been a welcome addition in the middle to replace Sheldon Rankins, but the defense’s performance against the run last season was mediocre, and that could repeat this year.
5. Will Nathaniel Hackett Excel as Offensive Coordinator?
There hasn’t been much talk about what Hackett’s offense will look like in his debut year with the Jets. Having Rodgers at quarterback undoubtedly helps, as everyone believes Rodgers will find a way to make things work. However, the onus is on Hackett to get the entire offense running. His stint with Rodgers in Green Bay was successful, but he wasn’t the primary play-caller there. The Jets have not had an offensive coordinator last for more than two years since 2011, making it a challenging role. Only time will tell how Hackett will fare.
