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Rodgers Returns but the Jets Are Still Searching for Success

Aaron Rodgers made his return, but the New York Jets were dominated by the 49ers without McCaffrey. Run defense is a major cause for concern.
Aaron Rodgers in his return as quarterback of the New York Jets

Former world heavyweight champion boxer Mike Tyson once said; “Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face.” You can think of everything. You can account for all the odds against you, and yet things can go wrong quickly. This can be said for the New York Jets on Monday night, after the first quarter at least. The stage was set for Aaron Rodgers to make his return from his Achilles injury for the Jets. Even with a healthy Aaron Rodgers(and an absent Christian McCaffrey), the New York Jets were overwhelmed in San Francisco. Renowned head coach Kyle Shanahan put together a dominating running game led by Jordan Mason. The Jets’ offense stalled but gave hope long-term with some big touchdowns. Nonetheless, the Jets have a lot of work to do.

Rodgers Returns but the Jets Are Still Searching for Success

Less than a calendar year after tearing his Achilles, Aaron Rodgers made his return to the New York Jets on Monday night. The controversial four-time MVP was looking to regain his hall-of-fame-worthy form in his first game back. With a retooled offensive line and young playmakers like Breece Hall and Garrett Wilson, Rodgers was seen as the last piece of a potential Super Bowl contender. Especially with this talented New York Jets defense that allowed less than 21 points a game in 2023. Unfortunately, if anyone knows how to stop Robert Saleh’s defense it’s Saleh’s long-time friend and former boss Kyle Shanahan.

No answer for Jordan Mason and the 49ers running game.

Last year, the Jets’ defensive line was able to control the line of scrimmage and get pressure on the quarterback to disrupt plays. However, without Bryce Huff and Jonathan Franklin-Myers, the team’s depth was overmatched. San Francisco relied upon Jordan Mason to carry the load with McCaffrey out and he excelled. With 28 carries on the night, Jordan Mason finished with 147 rushing yards. Even Deebo Samuel operated out of the backfield and got 28 yards and a touchdown. This is simply unrealistic to expect this team to be a playoff contender with such a poor display of tackling. Along with Sauce Gardner, CJ Mosely, and Michael Carter II missing snaps; the team was completely outmatched. This is even more concerning as Haason Reddick holds out for a new contract. If tonight was any indicator, the team will need his presence on the defensive line.

Aaron Rodgers returns but age is starting to show

There is no denying the legacy of Aaron Rodgers. A Super Bowl ring, 4x MVPs, and over 475 career touchdown passes. Despite this amazing track record, he’s still 40 years old and coming off a major injury. The Jets’ offensive line couldn’t get consistent protection, but Aaron still needs to involve others in the offense. A forced throw into Garrett Wilson was tipped by Lenoir and led to a costly interception. Wilson and Allen Lazard led the targets with a combined 20 between them. Allen Lazard even caught two touchdowns; one from Rodgers in the 3rd and Tyrod Taylor in the 4th. But Tyler Conklin getting only two targets is not going to cut it. Getting Mike Williams out there more will be a big benefit after being held out tonight on a snap count. New York’s offense will continue to fail if they force teams into doubling Garrett Wilson.

What to expect in Tennessee?

While beginning the season as the only AFC East team to lose, the Jets getting beaten by the reigning NFC Champions isn’t devastating. Next week, New York will head to Nashville and face the 0-1 Tennessee Titans. Breece Hall will look to avenge his second lost fumble in his entire career by Fred Warner tonight. Despite a tough matchup with Jeffery Simmons on the interior, New York’s running game should have a better game. Aaron Rodgers should also benefit from a more active Mike Williams as he gets back from his ACL injury.

Tonight’s game needs to be a wake-up call to Robert Saleh and the defense. They got overmatched on the line of scrimmage and need to capitalize on a new offense from Brian Callahan. After the Titans blew a 17-0 lead to the Bears on Sunday, now is the time for New York to get back on track as they look to climb up the AFC this year. A week of reflection and hopefully a chip on their shoulder to secure their first win of the season.

 

Main Photo: [Darren Yamashita] – USA Today Sports

Michael Zimmelman

Michael Zimmelman

Michael is an NFL editor & writer covering the New York Jets. His articles strive to provide fans with a unique and engaged perspective highlighting the organization as a whole. From player analysis, transactions, coaching retrospectives and more.

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