Aaron Rodgers and the New York Jets find themselves at a crucial juncture in a season that has quickly shifted from hopeful to troubling, standing at 2-5 with a disheartening four-game losing streak. Conversations around the potential for a playoff run have subsided, and the main goal now is simply to secure another win.
“There will be some ups and downs, some tough moments,” Rodgers reflected after the Jets endured a 37-15 defeat against the Pittsburgh Steelers. “You’ve got to keep doing the little things. That’s what it comes down to. We just don’t do the little things well enough, consistently enough — myself included.”
Last week, the Jets welcomed Davante Adams to their lineup, which owner Woody Johnson described as one of the most talented in the franchise’s history. Haason Reddick finally reported to the team after an extended contract holdout, adding another asset to the roster.
However, questions linger regarding whether these additions are timely enough to spark a change. “Everything’s in front of us,” asserted defensive lineman Solomon Thomas, showcasing a glimmer of hope amid the challenges.
Rodgers raised concerns about the team’s energy levels, labeling them as “flat” both pre-game and during halftime when the Jets held a narrow lead of 15-13 over the Steelers. In contrast, linebacker Quincy Williams felt differently, claiming that his perspective on the team’s energy did not align with Rodgers’ observation. “Everyone’s different,” he stated.
Interim coach Jeff Ulbrich, now 0-2 after taking over for Robert Saleh, acknowledged that there’s a tendency among players to press too hard for results. While he did not agree that the team appeared lacking in energy at the start of the game, he noted a noticeable drop during halftime.
“We all have got to take a deep breath,” he advised. “Just do our job, collectively.”
Rodgers’ decision-making led to a pivotal shift in momentum, especially late in the second quarter when his ill-advised throw to Garrett Wilson was intercepted by Beanie Bishop—the first of two interceptions by the Steelers’ rookie cornerback. This turnover allowed Pittsburgh to capitalize immediately by scoring a touchdown on their ensuing drive.
Thomas echoed Rodgers’ thoughts regarding the team’s energy post-halftime, stating, “It did mess with our energy a little bit.” After that, the Jets could not manage to put any more points on the board.
“When you come out like that, you’re disappointed, you’re frustrated, and you want to make changes, you want to make fixes,” Thomas admitted. “So, we’re hurt, but today, we’re optimistic and we’re moving on.”
This week brought the much-anticipated arrival of Reddick, who was set to take his physical after finally ending his holdout. Ulbrich mentioned, “He’s fired up. Ready to get rolling with us,” although it remains uncertain if he will play against New England.
On the flip side, the Jets’ running game needs urgent attention. Offensive play caller Todd Downing deviated from the run strategy, resulting in only 54 yards on 15 attempts against the Steelers, with Breece Hall accounting for just 38 yards on 12 carries. Rodgers noted their previous success against Buffalo and expressed disappointment at the lack of momentum carry-over into this game.
One silver lining has been edge rusher Will McDonald, last year’s first-round draft pick, who has consistently made an impact this season, having recorded eight sacks so far. His performance stands to improve further with Reddick’s presence on the field.
In contrast, Rodgers’ performance has raised concerns. He has thrown interceptions in each of his last three games, totaling seven this season, which is alarmingly close to matching his career high of thirteen. Though he remains a celebrated quarterback, his recent inconsistency has left fans questioning his performance under pressure. Ulbrich commented on Rodgers’ dedication, stating, “He’s such an amazing human being and teammate,” emphasizing that his sense of commitment sometimes causes him to feel the weight of the team’s struggles.
Injury updates indicate that Xavier Newman, who sustained a neck injury against Pittsburgh, underwent tests which returned negative, allowing him to travel back with the team. Uncertainty still lingers regarding injuries to S Tony Adams (hamstring) and RG Alijah Vera-Tucker (ankle), adding to the team’s woes as they contend with a depleted secondary.
Statistically, Adams was involved in 53 of the Jets’ 55 offensive snaps, but his contributions were limited to just three receptions for 30 yards on nine targets during his reunion with Rodgers.
The Jets are poised to challenge their losing streak this coming Sunday against the New England Patriots, who have struggled themselves with six consecutive losses since their opening week win against Cincinnati. A win against their AFC East rivals is crucial for the Jets to regain some momentum.