Aaron Rodgers’ torn Achilles tendon was the biggest thing that went wrong with the Jets’ 2023 offense, but it wasn’t the only one.
Wide receiver Allen Lazard’s play was also on the list. Lazard signed to join his former Packers quarterback on the AFC East team, but only caught 23 passes for 311 yards during a year in which the Jets made him a healthy scratch because of how little he was bringing to the table.
Lazard’s contract made cutting him a fruitless option, so he’s back for another year and Jets coach Robert Saleh said Wednesday the team has high hopes for a 2024 rebound.
“I feel like Allen came up with a renewed mindset,” Saleh said, via the team’s website. “I think he attacked a lot in the off-season. He appeared in tremendous shape. He’s like a second coach on the field and in the receiving room. He’s been amazing, so I’m grateful he’s here. I think he’s going to have a great bounce-back year.”
The Jets signed Mike Williams and drafted Malachi Corley this offseason, but Williams is coming off a torn ACL and Corley is a rookie, so neither is sure. This makes Lazard’s recovery even more desirable as the Jets move into the 2024 season.
