10 February 2024 , 00:00
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New York Jets owner Woody Johnson has made it clear that the team needs a new backup quarterback, with a verdict that spells the end of Zach Wilson's time with the franchise.
Wilson was unable to step into Aaron Rodgers' shoes after his season-ending Achilles injury. Four-time NFL MVP Rodgers, 40, was injured just four snaps into his debut for the Jets against the Buffalo Bills. Wilson stepped in and led the team to a 22-16 overtime win, giving some hope that the second overall pick from the 2021 Draft might finally prove his worth.
However, a disappointing 7-10 season followed and the Jets' playoff dreams were dashed before the 2023 season really began. Whether Wilson gets another chance with the Jets is uncertain - but owner Johnson has given a damning review of his performances.
"We need a backup quarterback, didn't have one last year," Johnson said. When asked about Rodgers' injury, he added: "What does it feel like having your arm chopped off?"
Despite this, Woody's wife, Suzanne Johnson, says there's a real buzz ahead of the 2024 campaign, with Rodgers returning to fitness. "I think there's going to be a lot of excitement because Aaron came back and he spent a lot of time with the guys on the sidelines even though he wasn't playing, which shows how much he cares about the players," she said. "And I think they feel such a kinship to him due to the fact that he's there and he shepherded them through."
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Johnson has put the pressure on Robert Saleh and his team, saying: "This is it. We have to produce this year," Woody said firmly.
Rodgers isn't fully fit yet but he's getting there. On The Joe Rogan Podcast, he shared: "It feels good," talking about his Achilles. "I can do everything except spring at a top speed."
Woody Johnson has placed high expectations on the Jets for 2024 (Getty)The NFL's big game is this Sunday in Las Vegas, but the Jets will be missing out again. It's a repeat of the 2019 season finale with the Kansas City Chiefs facing the San Francisco 49ers.
Mecole Hardman, who began the year with the Jets, told Mirror Sport he thought he'd be in Vegas with them, not the Chiefs. "Well, I thought I'd be here with the Jets! But I'm happy to be here, I don't take any of this for granted," he said.
He's thrilled to play with Aaron Rodgers, adding: "Playing with Aaron Rodgers it's a blessing. It's a bit of a flex doing it as a receiver and he's one of the best to ever do it."