Aaron Rodgers’ influence on the New York Jets is undeniable. The team made significant roster changes to accommodate him, including signing former teammates and hiring familiar coaches. However, many of these moves haven’t yielded the desired results, particularly with Rodgers’ season-ending injury in the first game of 2023.
Despite the setback, expectations remain high for the Jets in 2024. With a healthy Rodgers, the team is considered a Super Bowl contender. However, achieving this goal might require parting ways with some of the players Rodgers brought with him. One such player, according to Joe Tansey of Bleacher Report, is wide receiver Allen Lazard.
Lazard signed a four-year, $44 million contract with the Jets in 2023, but his performance fell far short of expectations. In 14 games, he managed only 23 receptions for 311 yards and a single touchdown. While Rodgers’ absence undoubtedly impacted Lazard’s production, his overall efficiency was among the lowest in the league.
Lazard’s struggles were particularly evident in the latter half of the season. He failed to catch a single pass in four of his last five games. While the Jets’ inconsistent quarterback play contributed to this, Lazard’s performance raises concerns about his future with the team.
Tansey suggests that Lazard’s position is precarious. “Lazard could turn things around with his long-time quarterback returning to the field. That is probably what the Jets are banking on. However, you could make an argument the Jets do not need Lazard if he underwhelms in preseason.”
The Jets’ receiving corps boasts promising talent in Garrett Wilson, Mecole Hardman, and Corey Davis. If younger players like Randall Cobb and Jason Brownlee impress during training camp, Lazard could become expendable. Tansey argues, “Wilson, Williams and Corley are likely the top three wide outs, and if Gipson and Brownlee show enough promise, a roster squeeze out could happen for Lazard.”
While Lazard’s performance warrants consideration for release, his relationship with Rodgers and the financial implications of his contract complicate the decision. Cutting Lazard wouldn’t provide immediate cap relief and would result in a significant dead cap hit of over $12 million.
Barring a dramatic improvement in performance, Lazard’s release in 2025 seems likely. However, for the upcoming season, his connection with Rodgers might secure his place on the roster, giving him one more chance to prove his worth. The Jets are betting on a resurgence, but Lazard’s future remains uncertain.
