When the New York Jets signed wide receiver Allen Lazard to a four-year, $44 million deal last offseason, they envisioned a promising partnership due to his familiarity with quarterback Aaron Rodgers. However, an unfortunate turn of events during the Jets’ 2023 season opener drastically altered their plans.
Aaron Rodgers’ Unfortunate Injury
Aaron Rodgers, the star quarterback, suffered a season-ending Achilles tear on the Jets’ opening drive. This injury not only ended Rodgers’ season but also severely compromised Lazard’s role within the team. In 14 games, Lazard logged just 23 catches for 311 yards and a touchdown, marking his least productive campaign since his rookie season in 2018.
Was Signing Allen Lazard a Mistake By New York Jets?
Connor Hughes of SNY shed light on the situation in a recent mailbag, expressing the sentiment that the Jets may view their decision to sign Lazard as a miscalculation. Hughes stated, “The Jets added Lazard last season because of his relationship with Rodgers. They wanted him to have someone familiar to throw to.
That is not a very good reason to sign a player to a contract worth $11 million annually. The Jets, if they had to answer honestly, I believe would admit that signing Lazard was a mistake.”
Hughes further mentioned that Lazard’s performance did not decline due to a lack of effort or skill. Instead, it was the absence of Rodgers’ precise throws that affected his productivity. This insight raises questions about Lazard’s future with the Jets, especially with Rodgers set to return in 2024.
The Competition Ahead
Looking ahead to the 2024 season, Lazard’s role with the Jets remains uncertain. The team already boasts a strong wide receiver lineup with Garrett Wilson, the addition of Mike Williams in free agency, and the drafting of Malachi Corley from Western Kentucky. Additionally, second-year receiver Xavier Gipson is also vying for a higher spot on the depth chart.
Where does this leave Lazard? Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing around 230 pounds, Lazard is undoubtedly a big target and has the potential to be a valuable red-zone asset for Rodgers. In 2021, he showcased his abilities with eight touchdown grabs for the Green Bay Packers.
However, with the Jets’ plethora of offensive weapons, including tight end Tyler Conklin and pass-catching running back Breece Hall, Lazard may struggle to secure a significant role.
Financial Constraints and Future Prospects
Financial constraints further complicate Lazard’s situation. His contract makes him untradeable, and cutting him would be too costly for the Jets. As a result, New York might have to keep Lazard on the roster and hope that he and Rodgers can rekindle some of their previous magic from their days with the Packers.
Only time will tell if Lazard can regain his form and prove his worth to the Jets. The 2024 season will be crucial for him as he aims to carve out a meaningful role and contribute to the team’s success.
