The New York Jets' 2023 season took a tumultuous turn as they embarked on yet another rebuild after a disappointing start. Under coach Robert Saleh, the Jets began the season with a 2-3 record, prompting management to relieve him of his duties. Jeff Ulbrich stepped in as interim coach just four weeks into the season. Despite a late-season surge, the team faced elimination from playoff contention early on, rendering their efforts futile. The Jets have now set their sights on 2024 with hopes of ending their 14-season playoff drought, the longest in major North American sports.
The Jets' season was marred by a franchise-high 137 penalties, contributing significantly to their struggles. The lack of discipline became a recurring theme, affecting both their defensive and offensive performances. Despite having Aaron Rodgers lead the offense, inconsistencies plagued the team. Rodgers, who averaged 254 passing yards over the last five games, reached a career milestone of 500 touchdown passes in the final game of the season. However, the team's offensive output failed to meet expectations consistently.
Rodgers was a bright spot in an otherwise lackluster offensive unit. He remained the only player who consistently met expectations throughout the season. However, the Jets were heavily reliant on their passing game inside the red zone, ranking as the most pass-happy team in that area. This strategy may have contributed to their low red-zone efficiency, ranking 21st in the league.
In an effort to bolster their defense, the Jets traded a 2026 third-round pick for Haason Reddick. Despite making nine solo tackles over 393 snaps, Reddick's contribution was shadowed by controversy. He declined interviews and faced criticism for a holdout that lasted seven games.
"Big names and talent don't guarantee wins. We're Exhibit A." – Unspecified player
The defense struggled throughout the season, failing to contain opponents effectively. The team's defensive woes were compounded by penalties, which disrupted their rhythm and led to significant yardage gains for opponents.
D.J. Reed acknowledged the impact of internal distractions on the team's performance.
"It impacted the team because it caused a distraction." – D.J. Reed
Jeff Ulbrich took over coaching duties with limited success. Reflecting on his dual role as interim head coach and coordinator, Ulbrich expressed his challenges in balancing both responsibilities.
"If I could build it perfect in a vision going forward, I would not be the coordinator and the head coach." – Mike LaFleur (Ulbrich)
Breece Hall also highlighted the impact of mid-season leadership changes on team morale.
"It's just hard for a team to win when you know your coach and GM are getting fired midway through the season." – Breece Hall
Despite these setbacks, D.J. Reed remained optimistic about the team's resilience.
"Despite this season, we never broke or folded, never checked out, as some people were saying." – D.J. Reed
As the Jets look ahead to 2024, they plan to address key areas of concern, including depth and reliance on older players at crucial positions. The team aims to bring in fresh leadership with <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/43346373/new-york-jets-disappointing-2024-season-aaron-rodgers-fired-coach-gm"">a new coach and general manager to steer them back on course.
Davante Adams remarked on Aaron Rodgers's enduring talent and potential to lead the team forward.
"He's a unicorn, regardless, and he's still got a lot left." – Davante Adams
Adams also emphasized the importance of a holistic approach to team development.
"Every floor of the building is important." – Davante Adams
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