The New York Jets wide receiving corps was one of the most looked forward to aspects of the team as the season was approaching. It was thought that new additions such as Corey Davis and Keelan Cole could help the development of rookie quarterback Zach Wilson. There was also some hype around second-year wideout Denzel Mims who Jets fans thought could take the next step in his career. But, arguably, the most hyped-up wide receiver for the Jets was rookie Elijah Moore. Shortly after he was drafted at the beginning of the second round fans fell in love with him. Everybody saw his potential to become one of the staples of the Jets offense. With only five games left in the season, the New York Jets will be relying on Elijah Moore.
New York Jets Success Hinges on Elijah Moore
Moore Will Be a Focal Point
Recently it was reported Davis is out for the season with an injury to his core. The Jets need Moore to embrace being a number one wide receiver. Over the last five games, Moore has been able to find the endzone five times. The Jets will need this type of production to continue because if it doesn’t, then the offensive success fans have seen will completely disappear. It appears that offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur has been giving Moore some designed plays. It should boost Moore’s confidence knowing the coaching staff trusts him and wants to get him the ball more often. Plus, giving Moore the ball has been a solid game plan for the Jets, and they should keep rolling with it.
Moore could also be a great tool to help Wilson become more comfortable playing in the NFL. Developing a relationship with their quarterback is one of the most crucial parts of being a receiver. Moore and Wilson have connected for some spectacular plays already, but there is room for improvement.
Room for Improvement
There have been some miscues on the field, and it appears the timing between Moore and Wilson is off just a bit. The only way for them to improve is with repetition. So, with time this issue should be resolved, and Wilson and Moore should start to connect consistently.
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A second hurdle Moore will have to clear is handling a wide receiver one workload. During these next five weeks, all of the attention from opposing defensive backs will be on Moore, considering it has become apparent he is the number one target. He will need to prove he can create space and find ways to get open for Wilson.
From what fans have already seen, this should not be a problem for Moore. Time and time again, he has proven he can find ways to get open. His route running has been one of his strengths this season, and now fans will see him show it off as he takes on this heavier workload.
In the end, Moore is ready to take the next step in 2021 and become the number one offensive target. The Jets will need him to show off his skills and help lead the team to a strong finish this season. Because if he can’t, these next five weeks will feel like an eternity to Jets fans.
