When it comes to the New York Jets swinging a blockbuster trade for a franchise quarterback in the offseason, some people around the NFL believe they have a better chance of landing future Hall-of-Famer Aaron Rodgers than former league MVP Lamar Jackson.
While the New York Jets (7-10) had some positive growth as a team this season — especially on defense — their 2022-2023 campaign will still be viewed as a disappointment after closing out the year with a six-game losing skid that took them out of contention for a playoff spot.
The leading cause for their late-season swoon was from lackluster play on offense, and poor performances from 2021 first-round pick Zach Wilson. The 23-year-old’s regression this season has led the Jets front office to decide that he is not a long-term answer at quarterback and they need to address the position in a major way this offseason.
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Fortunately for them, now is the perfect time to do so with a strong QB class in the 2023 NFL draft, several notable signal-callers entering NFL free agency, and a few multi-time Pro Bowlers potentially being available on the trade market.
The Jets are believed to have a good shot at acquiring a big name via trade, however, it seems their best chance could come with an NFL legend in the NFC.
New York Jets seen as a good Aaron Rodgers trade fit
Two prominent QBs that could be moved this offseason are Green Bay Packers icon Aaron Rodgers and Baltimore Ravens star Lamar Jackson. While neither is guaranteed to be shipped off in the coming months, there is a real possibility a deal happens.
On Tuesday, ESPN NFL insider Jeremy Fowler spoke with coaches and executives around the league about the situations with the two quarterbacks, and many believe the New York Jets will be in play for both. However, their chance of scoring Jackson is less likely with one executive noting, “I don’t think Baltimore wants to deal him in the conference.” Meaning, the Ravens will do all they can to send the 26-year-old to the NFC first.
Yet, the New York Jets’ prospects are better when it comes to Rodgers. While it might not seem like playing for the Jets would be a top option for the 39-year-old, there is a belief in the NFL that the team has a strong chance. Due to their defense being an elite unit, and their receiving corps — led by 2022 first-round pick Garrett Wilson — offering some strong targets for Rodgers.
As of this week, the Green Bay great still seems to be undecided on what his plans are for the 2023 season.