NFL Network Reporter: Rodgers' Eventual Arrival Elevates the Jets in AFC East Hierarchy
Mike Giardi sees title contention in the New York Jets’ near future.
The NFL Network reporter suggested that Aaron Rodgers, even at 39 years old, would provide enough of an upgrade at quarterback to make Gang Green a playoff-caliber team.
Making a routine appearance on NFL Network Friday afternoon, the Boston-based Giardi spoke about Rodgers’ eventual arrival altering the trajectory of the Jets’ franchise.
“They were, to me, one of the five best defenses in football last season,” said Giardi. “All the pieces are in place and they just needed someone to be competent at quarterback.”
Rodgers, a four-time National Football League MVP, could be the competent signal caller that Gang Green has lacked.
“Even if Aaron Rodgers is the Aaron Rodgers of this past season with Green Bay. We’d all say that was a down year for Aaron Rodgers. That would be a massive, and I’m talking massive, upgrade for that Jets team,” exclaimed Giardi, who was the New England Patriots beat reporter for NBC Boston prior to joining NFL Network.
The addition of former Green Bay receiver Allen Lazard should make it even tougher for defenses to deal with reigning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Garrett Wilson.
“You’ve already seen what Garrett Wilson can be,” said Giardi of the former Ohio State star receiver.
Wilson gained 1,103 yards on 83 catches during his award-winning 2022 campaign.
Should Rodgers be the one throwing passes to Wilson and Lazard in 2023, then Giardi envisions the Jets ending their playoff drought.
“I don’t know how that team doesn’t end up in the postseason next year and doesn’t threaten the Buffalo Bills as the King of the AFC East,” “I still think the Bills are the best team, but I think the gap is closing with the Jets,” said Giardi.
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