Even in their wildest dreams, no New York Jets fan would have predicted how the game against the Buffalo Bills would begin yesterday. It was the day when Aaron Rodgers finally made his debut for the ‘Gang Green.’
The atmosphere in the Big Apple was tense, especially considering that just 24 hours earlier, they had witnessed a significant defeat to the Cowboys, which had cast a shadow over the 9/11 commemorations. However, with a new day came renewed hope and expectations. Despite the inclement weather, crowds gathered at MetLife Stadium with anticipation to watch Aaron Rodgers in action.
The four-time NFL MVP quarterback rushed out of the tunnel with an American flag as the National Anthem resonated in the air. Rodgers was in the spotlight, as he has been since his summer move. The stands were packed with an eager audience as they welcomed their savior.
However, the celebration turned sour when the Bills’ new defensive end, Leonard Floyd, tackled the veteran quarterback on the Jets’ first drive. Rodgers’ got back up but went back down again, clutching his leg. The physio scrambled to check on him as the fans observed in silence. Moments later, he hobbled off the field, and the medical team carted him away for further examination.
It’s not the sight any Jets fan would want to see in their opening match, no less. They have been through some rough patches without a great quarterback at the helm. Even social media showed sympathy for them.
The cry had been loud and clear from the Jets faithful to finally get a franchised quarterback. When Aaron Rodgers eventually switched allegiance from the Packers to New York, a ray of hope shone upon them. The 39-year-old brought with him 18 seasons worth of experience, in which he has won multiple pro bowls and a Super Bowl ring. It’s fair to say the expectations were through the roof until yesterday.
Man … I thought being a Panthers fan was tough. Feel that.
— Tim 🇺🇸 (@GatorTimSports) September 12, 2023NFL script writers really really hate the Jets.
— Will.I.Be (@wtwilkinson4) September 12, 2023There isn’t worse pain a human being has felt than what Jets fans have felt over the past 30 mins
— kap (@hopefulmetsfan) September 12, 2023Lions fan and I feel AWFUL for jets fans man… they are passionate as hell and been down for a long time I feel for them smh.
— Smokey Robinson (@SmokeyR777) September 12, 2023Backup quarterback Zach Wilson took the reins and steadied the ship for the home side. Remarkably, the Bills failed to capitalize on the situation. Quarterback Josh Allen did not have the most productive day. He was sacked several times and threw three interceptions.
The game went on forever after it finished all squares 16–16. But the Jets had the last laugh through a punt return as rookie Xavier Gipson scored a 65-yard touchdown to win the game.
While the Jets were celebrating an unexpected victory, bad news came in about Rodgers’s injury, as he is set to miss the year with a supposed torn Achilles. Zach Wilson is now QB 1.
With Rodgers apparently lost for the year and Zach Wilson being named default QB1 going forward, here's a list of FA QBs still available in case the team wants a veteran to backup/compete with Zach.
FAs of all position here:https://t.co/nxNGDOZh7v
Carson Wentz
Cam Newton
Josh… https://t.co/dB3T9Fxw2b
Undeniably, it’s a massive headache for coach Robert Saleh, but Wilson’s performance should relieve some pressure. From now on, until Rodgers comes back, every game will be crucial. However, the most fascinating part is whether they will dive into free agency for precaution or stick with what they have
In case you missed it:
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