The New York Jets: A Season of Redemption
The New York Jets entered the 2023 season with high expectations and a new quarterback, but things quickly took a turn for the worse. Just four plays into the first offensive drive, Aaron Rodgers suffered a season-ending Achilles injury, and the team finished with a disappointing 7-10 record.
But as the saying goes, what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. And for the Jets, this past season was a lesson in resilience and determination. Head coach Robert Saleh is ready to attack their goals once again in 2024.
“[I’m] excited to attack this season and try to accomplish the things we were supposed to accomplish a year ago,” Saleh said.
The hype surrounding the team may not be as loud as it was last offseason, but Saleh appreciates the calmness. “Last year was a little loud. We welcome a little bit of quietness,” he said.
The Jets made some key additions this offseason, including veteran offensive linemen Tyron Smith, Morgan Moses, and John Simpson. Saleh believes these additions, along with the young linemen from last season, will provide the protection that Rodgers needs to succeed.
“All the young guys that were forced to play a year ago were really excited about the direction they’re going,” Saleh said. “But at the same time, to bring in some veteran presence, to bring in some leadership, to bring in guys who know how to play the game — who have played the game at a very high level and who really have the capability of achieving and matching the standard which we’re trying to create.”
Saleh had high praise for the new additions, calling Moses an “old school soul” who “works his tail off” and is “going to pull people with him.” He also noted that Smith has played at a “high level for a very long time” and that Simpson has battled “to prove he belongs in this league.”
“Excited about the mental makeup of the room,” Saleh said.
But even with these additions, the Jets know that their success ultimately hinges on the health of their 40-year-old quarterback. Saleh is confident that Rodgers will be ready to go for the start of the season and is determined to accomplish what was cut short last year.
“Aaron, he’s on a mission,” Saleh said. “He’s doing his rehab. He’s out in California, I believe. Obviously he’s taking some time for himself. He was ready to go last year, man. So I know he’s getting ready. We speak to him often. I don’t want to speak for him, but I am going to speak for him and say that he’s really excited about attacking this season.”
Can the Jets Conquer the AFC East?
Even with a healthy Rodgers, the Jets know that the AFC East is no easy division to conquer. The Buffalo Bills and Miami Dolphins are two formidable opponents and are expected to remain top contenders in 2024.
But the Jets are ready for the challenge. With a season of redemption on their minds, they are determined to prove themselves and make a statement in the AFC East. Will they be able to rise to the top? Only time will tell.
