Aaron Rodgers Remains New York Jets Biggest Help in 2024 Draft Strategy?

As the debate ranges between whether the Jets should draft a receiver or offensive linemen, New York's franchise quarterback can provide clarity.

It's the debate that will continue in the halls of 1 Jets Drive for the foreseeable future. With two weeks remaining before the start of the 2024 NFL Draft, the New York Jets aren't able to pinpoint exactly where their biggest need is with the 10th overall selection.

Of course, that's a good problem to have, but the debate about whether the organization should draft a wide receiver or offensive lineman with their first-round pick has only grown following a strong free-agency haul by the team.

Jan 7, 2024; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) walks off

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With most of the starting lineup all but secured, the Jets will be drafting for the overall depth of the offensive unit. While a receiver could help the immediate needs of the 2024 season, it's not the only need the Jets have.

When debating this exact topic, though, it's important to remember one key fact about Gang Green. This fact not only tips the scale of where the Jets should go in the draft, but why.

That fact is simple: Aaron Rodgers is still New York's starting quarterback.

Over the course of his career with the Green Bay Packers, Rodgers has been successful with mediocre talent around him, and elite talent to thrive with. When his receiving core wasn't at their best, Rodgers was still willing victories for the Pack throughout his career. There is a reason why he has won four NFL MVPs.

One that has always affected Rodgers, and every quarterback in the NFL for that matter, is a poor offensive line. When the Packers were unable to protect their former franchise quarterback, the entire offense crumbled around them. The same could be said for Peyton Manning, Tom Brady , and any other elite quarterback in NFL history.

So when the debate continues regarding what New York should do with the 10th overall pick, the real question should be: What can Rodgers work with in regards to this offense?

Can the future Hall-of-Famer win football games with Garrett Wilson, Breece Hall, Tyler Conklin, and a banged-up Mike Williams consistently with an offensive line that has depth protection surrounding major positions? Is he able to continue to pull out wins if Tyron Smith or Morgan Moses get hurt and Carter Warren or Max Mitchell are considered the chief backup players at their position?

The answer is pretty obvious. It doesn't matter what receivers Rodgers is working with, he has shown a propensity to excel as long as he has a good offensive line in front of him. While Smith and Moses are entrenched as starters in 2024, having a quality rookie to grow with them like the top players of the current draft class such as Olu Fashanu or Troy Fautanu will be important for the health of the offensive line.

And it doesn't matter who is catching passes, the Jets have already shown their offense cannot work without a cohesive unit up front.