New York Jets coach Robert Saleh has dismissed rumors that the team signed four former Green Bay Packers players simply because new quarterback Aaron Rodgers requested them. Saleh called the narrative “silly,” adding that it is common for new faces to want old faces to help accelerate the installation of a program. Offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett, who previously worked with the Packers, had a say in bringing in the former teammates. Saleh noted that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers added two players that Tom Brady wanted, tight end Rob Gronkowski and wide receiver Antonio Brown.
Rodgers’ Wish List
Reports of Rodgers’ wish list emerged in March, with wide receiver Allen Lazard and receiver Randall Cobb among the players listed. The Jets pursued Odell Beckham Jr. but he chose to sign with the Baltimore Ravens. When asked about tight end Marcedes Lewis, Saleh smiled and said “you never know.” Rodgers and Cobb had been teammates for a decade, and the quarterback had Cobb by his side when he walked off Lambeau Field after the 2022 finale, knowing it might be his last game in a Packers uniform.
Rodgers’ Early Impact
Saleh has spoken highly of Rodgers, saying he has never been around a quarterback quite like him. Rodgers has impressed with his ability to communicate with teammates on and off the field, according to Saleh. The quarterback is participating in voluntary workouts, which is a departure from his past in Green Bay. Rodgers wants to use this time to build chemistry with his new teammates and get acclimated to new surroundings. Saleh added that Rodgers is coming to the Jets to win.
Despite concerns about core player Corey Davis, Saleh confirmed he will be on the team. Davis is coming off two injury-plagued seasons and has an $11.2 million cap charge with a non-guaranteed salary of $10.5 million. The Jets also have Garrett Wilson, the 2022 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, as well as newcomers Mecole Hardman and Lazard in their receiving corps.
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