The New York Jets’ 2024 training camp features Allen Lazard’s return to the starting lineup, key injuries like Michael Carter II’s ankle issue, and Aaron Rodgers’ impressive comeback after an Achilles injury.
These updates highlight the team’s preparation and optimism for the upcoming season.
- Allen Lazard is back in the Jets’ starting lineup with important team depth chart changes.
- Cornerback Michael Carter II hurt his ankle during training but is expected to recover soon.
- Quarterback Aaron Rodgers looks great in training camp, showing no signs of his past Achilles injury.
Allen Lazard is Back in the Starting Lineup
Last year, Allen Lazard became a forgotten player in the Jets’ offense due to Aaron Rodgers’ injury. Lazard only caught 23 passes for 311 yards and was even left out of at least one game. He stayed on the team because of his $10 million guaranteed salary in 2024.
With Rodgers back, Lazard is in the starting lineup again, according to the Jets’ first unofficial depth chart of 2024.
This is mainly because newcomer Mike Williams is still recovering from a torn ACL he suffered early last season with the Chargers. Once Williams is healthy, Lazard will likely move to the second team.
The other starting receivers for the Jets are Garrett Wilson and Xavier Gipson. Gipson, undrafted in 2023, is also the No. 1 kickoff and punt returner.
The depth chart shows three new starting offensive linemen: Tyron Smith, John Simpson, and Morgan Moses. Rookie first-rounder Olu Fashanu is the backup left tackle behind Smith.
2023 first-rounder Will McDonald is a backup edge rusher behind Jermaine Johnson, while free-agent Javon Kinlaw is a starting defensive tackle with Quinnen Williams.
Michael Carter II’s Ankle Injury & Impact on the Jets’ Defense
The New York Jets had a scare during their training camp practice on July 31. Cornerback Michael Carter II hurt his ankle during a red zone drill and was seen limping badly. He was taken inside for further assessment.
Head coach Robert Saleh provided an update after practice, revealing that Carter suffered an ankle injury. Saleh reassured that it shouldn’t be a long-term issue and promised more information in subsequent updates.
Carter is very important to the Jets’ defense. Though he doesn’t get as much attention as teammates Sauce Gardner and DJ Reed, he is one of the best nickel cornerbacks in the NFL.
Carter is in the final year of his $3.8 million rookie contract and has made 20 starts in 47 games. He has two interceptions, 23 pass deflections, a forced fumble, two fumble recoveries, and 185 total tackles.
Carter is also stepping up as a leader this offseason. Known for his quiet demeanor, he aims to become more vocal, using his respected position within the team to guide his peers.
Aaron Rodgers’ Comeback & Expectations for the Season
Head coach Robert Saleh has high expectations for quarterback Aaron Rodgers in the upcoming season. Despite an Achilles injury that took him out early last season, Rodgers has shown no signs of rust during training camp.
Saleh praised Rodgers, saying he looks like he never missed any time and that he is a “Hall of Famer for a reason.” Rodgers, a 10-time Pro Bowler and four-time MVP, was a key addition to the Jets before the 2023 season.
Since entering the league in 2005, he has accumulated 59,055 passing yards and 475 touchdowns. Although the Jets missed the playoffs last season with a 7-10 record, Rodgers’ presence gives hope for a better outcome in 2024.
Rodgers has made the playoffs 12 times in his career and believes he can do it again with the Jets. The team’s success will depend on his health and performance.
In summary, these updates clearly show the New York Jets’ preparation for the 2024 season.
With key players returning and overcoming injuries, the team hopes to break its playoff drought and succeed under Aaron Rodgers’ leadership.
