2021 New York Jets: They Might Finally be on Track

For the first time in years it looks like the Jets have some direction. They hired Joe Douglas as their general manager and he has long been considered a great evaluator of talent. He chose 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh as his head coach and his personality is what this team needs. They parted ways with Sam Darnold who was a disappointment at quarterback and chose Zach Wilson with the 21st pick in the 2021 draft. They are expecting him to start right away. It will be interesting to see how this all plays out

New York needs to find weapons that can do some things to help out the rookie quarterback. The running backs are not big-names and are led by free-agent Tevin Coleman and returner La’Mical Perine. Slot receiver Jamison Crowder (59 catches for 699 yards) is the best of a good position group. They signed Corey Davis from Tennessee and hope that Denzil Mims continues to develop. The offensive line is young and improving and first-rounder Alijah Vera-Tucker is expected to start immediately.

The defensive line has tackles Sheldon Rankins and Quinnen Williams that are huge but also very quick. The Jets tried to revamp their linebackers and added Jarrad Davis and Del’Shawn Phillips through free agency. They also have C.J. Mosley back after he opted out because of COVID. Before that, he was a 4-time Pro Bowler with Baltimore but it’s not sure if he going to play. The Jets’ safety duo of Marcus Maye and LaMarcus Joyner are the best players in the secondary.

Schedule:

Must Wins: Cincinnati, Philadelphia, Jacksonville, at Houston

Toss-Up Games: Tennessee, New Orleans, at Carolina

Probable Losses: at Buffalo, Miami, New England, Tampa Bay, at Denver, at Atlanta, at New England, at Indianapolis, at Miami, at Buffalo

Summary in Two Sentences: This season is not about wins and losses, instead focus on continuing to build the foundation for future years. They seem to have some direction and an idea of what they want to do and patience is needed throughout the organization and fan base.

Predicted Finish: 4th Place in the AFC East