Tue Oct 15 01:40:00 UTC 2024: ## Jets Shake Up Offense, Rodgers Needs Help

**FLORHAM PARK, N.J.** – The New York Jets are making major changes to their offensive strategy after a disappointing start to the season, including a particularly rough performance by quarterback Aaron Rodgers in their Week 3 loss to the Minnesota Vikings.

Following the loss, the Jets have stripped offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett of his playcalling duties, handing them over to Todd Downing. This shift comes after a concerning trend of Rodgers being asked to throw an excessive amount, dropping back 57 of 71 plays in the Vikings game, including a stretch of 19 consecutive dropbacks in the fourth quarter.

This heavy reliance on Rodgers’ arm has led to a lack of balance in the offense and exposed the veteran quarterback to a barrage of pressure, contributing to one of the worst games of his career.

“We expect a rebound Monday night against the Buffalo Bills,” said wide receiver Allen Lazard. “A game like that happens once in a blue moon.”

Downing, who previously served as offensive coordinator for the Tennessee Titans, brings a run-heavy approach to the table. His previous success with Derrick Henry in Tennessee offers a blueprint for the Jets to lessen Rodgers’ workload and revitalize a struggling rushing attack led by Breece Hall.

The Jets’ coaching staff has been a revolving door in recent years, with Downing becoming the ninth offensive coordinator in the past 13 seasons.

Meanwhile, the future of general manager Joe Douglas remains uncertain after the team fired head coach Robert Saleh. Despite not playing a major role in the decision, Douglas’ six-year contract expires after the season, and his future with the team is tied to the Jets’ ability to turn things around.

Adding to the unusual week, Pro Bowl edge rusher Haason Reddick remains in a holdout with his agency dropping him after a breakdown in contract negotiations. This situation could lead to Reddick sitting out the entire season, forfeiting millions in salary and potentially impacting the Jets’ defensive line.

The Jets are hopeful that these changes will lead to a turnaround as they head into their Monday night matchup against their division rivals, the Buffalo Bills.

Read More