When it comes to the New York Jets and their quarterback struggles, it’s a tale as old as time. The recent twist in this saga is the abrupt end of the Aaron Rodgers era in the Big Apple. On a fateful Monday night, just four snaps into his debut as a Jet, the superstar quarterback suffered a devastating Achilles injury, ruling him out for the entire 2023 season. This leaves New York in a precarious situation, with a looming question mark at the quarterback position and their Super Bowl hopes hanging in the balance.
Unfortunately for the Jets, finding a capable replacement for Rodgers is easier said than done. General manager Joe Douglas faces a daunting task as he scours the limited options available to him.
The following are the potential candidates to fill this critical role:
1. Zach Wilson
Status: In-house
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The most obvious choice is Zach Wilson, the Jets’ 2021 NFL Draft pick, who was essentially handed the reins following Rodgers’ injury. While Wilson possesses the physical tools to excel as a passer, his decision-making has been inconsistent. It remains to be seen how much trust the coaching staff will place in him, especially in a season where the Jets had playoff aspirations.
2. Joe Flacco
Status: Free agent
Joe Flacco is a familiar face in Florham Park, having spent the last three seasons with the Jets. However, at 38 years old, he lacks the mobility required for the team’s struggling offensive line in 2023. Fresh legs might be necessary to bolster the offense.
3. Carson Wentz
Status: Free agent
Once a promising first-round pick, Wentz’s career trajectory has taken a nosedive, with underwhelming stints in Indianapolis and Washington. Doubts persist regarding his viability as a quarterback, even as a backup.
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4. Matthew Stafford
Status: Signed by Rams
Reports suggest the Jets explored the possibility of acquiring Stafford before landing Rodgers. However, Stafford’s contract poses a significant hurdle, with substantial dead money implications. The logistics of such a deal appear complex.
5. Colt McCoy
Status: Free agent
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While not necessarily a better quarterback than Stafford, McCoy offers a practical option for the Jets. As a seasoned veteran with experience as a spot starter, he could step in when needed and potentially secure victories, even if his ceiling is limited.
6. Jacoby Brissett
Status: Signed with Commanders
Brissett signed with Washington on a one-year deal but currently sits behind Sam Howell on the depth chart. While a move is unlikely, it’s not impossible should Howell falter during the season.
7. Matt Ryan
Status: Free agent (Currently with CBS)
Bringing Matt Ryan out of the broadcast booth might make sense for the Jets. He is familiar with the west-coast offense, having excelled in a similar scheme under Kyle Shanahan in Atlanta. However, questions surround his physical condition, given his lackluster 2022 season with the Colts.
8. Tom Brady
Status: Retired (Co-owner of the Raiders)
No quarterback-needy-team narrative is complete without Tom Brady rumors. However, the chances of Brady returning to the NFL with the Jets seem slim. Reports suggest that the Jets have no plans to reach out to Brady, who has also indicated his retirement. Additionally, Brady would need approval from NFL owners to make a comeback, a scenario that appears unlikely at the moment.
In conclusion, the Jets face a critical decision in the wake of Aaron Rodgers’ season-ending injury. With no clear-cut options, the path forward is fraught with uncertainty. Whether they stick with Zach Wilson, explore free-agent signings, or pursue trade opportunities, the fate of the Jets’ 2023 season and their Super Bowl aspirations hang in the balance. Only time will reveal the quarterback who will step into this iconic role for the Jets.
