On Tuesday, the New York Jets made waves by announcing that they have cut veteran receiver Allen Lazard. This decision not only severs his ties with quarterback Aaron Rodgers, but signals a change in the team’s overall offensive approach. With Lazard leaving after three seasons with the Jets. In his two seasons with the Rams, he helped transform their receiving corps.
In 2023, Lazard signed a four-year $44 million contract with the Jets. He dealt with a lack of playing time this year with only 250 snaps logged on the field. Even with this limited opportunity, he was able to tally 10 receptions for 70 yards and one touchdown this season. During that three-year span, he racked up 70 catches for 911 yards and eight touchdowns.
The Jets just chose to void the final year of Lazard’s contract. This move is a sure sign that he won’t be a free agent when this season comes to an end. This choice comes on the heels of a treacherous offseason where Lazard seemed all but gone after Rodgers was let go back in March. Ultimately, he negotiated an $8.75 million reduction in his salary to remain with the team. This decision further emphasized his dedication to the Jets at that time.
Lazard’s exit would leave the Jets in a world of hurt as it pertains to their receiving corps. On top of all of that, Garrett Wilson, their leading receiver, has missed the last five games with a knee injury. Coach Aaron Glenn expressed hope that Wilson would return to action this season, stating, “did some really good things, especially the way he started the game (6-for-6, one TD pass) and then he made some rookie mistakes.”
In Wilson’s absence, the Jets have turned to Adonai Mitchell, John Metchie III, and Isaiah Williams as their primary receivers. This transition is further highlighted by the fact that the team will have to adjust on the fly as they continue on without Lazard.
Lazard built a close rapport with Rodgers during their five seasons together with the Green Bay Packers. His comfort level with the veteran quarterback was supposed to be what finally unlocked Gang Green’s offense this season. Sadly, that potential never materialized.
New York Jets are committing to a long term future. Then there’s the matter of what these guys face offensively, which they’ll have to tweak— heavy roster turnover plus injuries. Allen Lazard’s release is the start of a new era for the team. They’re now primed for a deeper, more versatile receiving corps, continuing their evolution forward without their previous go-to gun.
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