© Jonathan Jones-USA TODAY Sports
Reacting to Sports Illustrated's '100 Bold Predictions' from Jets' Perspective
The biggest surprise may be that Aaron Rodgers was the main character for only three of Sports Illustrated's "100 Bold Predictions for the 2023 NFL Season."
SI senior writer Conor Orr unveiled a 100-item list of NFL happenings that could transpire in the coming months. There was no shortage of wild propositions, some wilder than others.
Orr offered three predictions related to the New York Jets' new quarterback, including a season stats projection for the four-time NFL MVP.
Prior to listing the trio of Rodgers-related items, Orr offered a prediction for the AFC East division race and it was somewhat of a head-scratcher. At No. 3 overall on the docket, the author boldly proclaimed, "the Patriots will win the AFC East."
From "100 Bold Predictions..."
45. Aaron Rodgers will prove to be a model citizen in New Jersey, free of drama
I have voiced this prediction elsewhere, but even amid the chaos that routinely is the Jets, Rodgers will not be rolled up in any scandal. The legendary quarterback has his eyes on legacy and understands that succumbing to a New York tabloid burial is the quickest way to alter long-term perception. In fact, proving a model citizen in the world’s biggest media market would probably also help whitewash some of his more controversial statements of the past.
85. The Jets are not done adding old Aaron Rodgers teammates
Veteran tight end Marcedes Lewis will join the fold. Lewis is a back-breaking blocker who can help alleviate some of the team’s uncertainties up front. He was instrumental in some of Green Bay’s best seasons on offense under Nathaniel Hackett.
86. Speaking of Aaron Rodgers, here are his 2023 numbers in full
28 touchdowns, 13 interceptions, 3,981 passing yards.
— Conor Orr
First, Rodgers is fitting in just fine, both socially and schematically, with his new organization. Also, how much scandal ever surrounded Rodgers in Green Bay, outside of something fabricated by talking heads in the media? His statements couldn't have been too controversial, considering he remains revered by generations of Packers' fans.
READ Jets' Way Too Early 53-man Roster Projection
As for Orr's point on adding Lewis, it is likely pure speculation and unlikely to happen at this point in time. The Jets have already invested a lot in the tight end position with veteran Tyler Conklin and C.J. Uzomah at the top of the depth chart and draft picks Jeremy Ruckert and Zack Kuntz providing competition.
Prediction No. 86 is by far the easiest to agree with. Those numbers certainly won't land Rodgers a fifth MVP award, but they're almost definitely good enough to make the Jets a playoff team.
Sportsbooks are expecting similar production from Rodgers in 2023. His pass yards total (over-under) opened at 3,950.5 and his expected touchdown passes (over-under) were initially set at 29.5.
READ MORE:
Rodgers and Teammates Engulfed in Entertainment Capital of the World
Schein Believes in Rodgers, Says Jets Are in for 'Super' Season
Jets' 2023 Schedule Featuring Official Point Spreads for Every Game
