Jets Country

Crucial Jets Wide Receiver Tabbed 'Player To Watch' In Minicamp

Allen Lazard could be the key to a successful Jets season.
Zach Pressnell|
Jan 5, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets wide receiver Allen Lazard (10) celebrates his touchdown reception with wide receiver Garrett Wilson (5) during the first half against the Miami Dolphins at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Jan 5, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets wide receiver Allen Lazard (10) celebrates his touchdown reception with wide receiver Garrett Wilson (5) during the first half against the Miami Dolphins at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images | Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

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New York Jets

The New York Jets made a lot of positive moves during this offseason, but they didn't upgrade their wide receiver room whatsoever. In fact, the wide receiver core took a big step backward following the decision to cut Davante Adams.

Still, newly signed quarterback Justin Fields is going to have to figure out how to command an offense with limited pass catching options.

Craig Moffett of USA Today recently listed Allen Lazard, one of the Jets' top wide receiver options, as a bubble player to watch during the team's minicamp.

"Lazard took a pay cut to stay in New York instead of being released, so it sounds like he wants to play for Glenn this season," Moffett wrote. "Josh Reynolds is the favorite to be WR2 opposite Garrett Wilson, but Lazard still adds value as a veteran receiver on this very young Jets roster. He'll have some competition from Tyler Johnson, Malachi Corley, Xavier Gipson and the team's fourth round pick, Arian Smith.

"But, a strong summer from Lazard could be a win-win for his future. He either plays a bigger role in Tanner Engstrand's offense or he'll generate interest from other teams in a potential trade."

Lazard has been mixed in some trade rumors, specifically to the Pittsburgh Steelers, during the offseason, but it doesn't seem a deal is imminent.

His role is going to be huge for the Jets unless a guy like Arian Smith or Malachi Corley show up to minicamp and dominate. Lazard isn't a high potential wideout, but he plays his role and does so in a big way.

He's certainly going to be an important piece for the Jets this season. That makes him a crucial name to watch during minicamp and the buildup to the season.

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Zach Pressnell
ZACH PRESSNELL

Zach Pressnell has experience covering all major US sports at both the professional and collegiate levels. He’s produced content for FanSided, Blog Red Machine, The Game Haus, Bethany College Athletics and the Bethany College online newspaper, He graduated from Bethany College (WV) with a degree in Communications and Media Arts, specializing in Sports Journalism. Pressnell was also a four-year member of the baseball team where he earned himself All-PAC recognition as a pitcher (and a cool Tommy John surgery scar). Now, Pressnell specializes in NFL and MLB coverage for Sports Illustrated’s “On SI” network among others. For all business/marketing inquiries regarding "New York Jets On SI," please reach out to Scott Neville: scott@wtfsports.org

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