NFL Insider: Jets’ Aaron Rodgers ‘not the wizard he once was’ compared to NBA PG | News, scores, highlights, stats and rumors
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Although Aaron Rodgers picked up his first win on Sunday in a New York Jets game that he played from start to finish, reviews of his performance in the two games this season have been mixed.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, a veteran AFC personnel official used a basketball analogy to assess Rodgers’ abilities at this stage of his career.
“At this point, he’s more of a point guard who distributes,” the person said of Rodgers. “Not the wizard he once was.”
Despite his name recognition, it was unrealistic to expect Rodgers to play like he did in his prime with the Green Bay Packers. There aren’t many examples of a 40-year-old quarterback playing at an elite level, let alone one fresh off a torn Achilles.
The most glaring element that Rodgers lacks in his game is his mobility. His ability to move in and around the pocket under pressure isn’t what it once was, but he does his best to avoid those situations.
According to NFL Next Gen Stats, Rodgers’ throw time of 2.46 seconds is the third fastest in the league. Only Jayden Daniels (2.33) and Tua Tagovailoa (2.4) get rid of the ball faster.
This has put a limit on the Jets’ passing game, but it keeps Rodgers healthy as he continues to adjust to playing in NFL defense again. He still has the accuracy and talent for throwing that very few quarterbacks in the league are capable of.
The more concerning aspect of New York’s offense over the last two games is how inefficient they have been running the ball. According to ESPN, they have the seventh-worst run-block win rate in the NFL. Breece Hall is averaging 3.9 yards per carry, which is a career low.
If the offense doesn’t improve and Rodgers continues to play in a way that leaves the offense lacking explosive plays, the Jets could be in trouble as they try to end their 14-year playoff drought.
For now, however, Rodgers should try everything possible to see what he can do at this stage of his career.
Rodgers and the Jets’ offense will be put to the test in Week 3 when they host the New England Patriots on Thursday night.
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