Aaron Rodgers Gets Offensive Boost as Jets Activate Star WR

New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers is getting a big offensive boost as the team activates star wide receiver Allen Lazard ahead of Week 14’s faceoff against the Miami Dolphis, NFL Insider Jordan Schultz reports.

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Lazard signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars as an undrafted free agent in 2018 and moved to the Green Bay Packers later, where he developed a strong connection with quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

Over several seasons, Lazard became a key target in the Packers’ offense, excelling in the red zone and contributing both as a receiver and blocker. In 2023, he reunited with Rodgers, joining the New York Jets. Their established chemistry, combined with Lazard’s versatility and leadership, has made him a valuable asset in the Jets’ offense.

Earlier this season, Lazard caught Aaron Rodgers’ first touchdown pass as a Jet in Week 1. Although he dropped a key pass on the opening drive, Lazard bounced back to score two touchdowns in the Jets’ 32-19 loss to the San Francisco 49ers.

So far this season, he has recorded 30 receptions for 412 yards and five touchdowns in seven games this season However, in October, he was placed on injured reserve due to a chest injury. Now that Rodgers is back on the field, it seems very likely that the Jets are attempting to boost the QB’s lackluster season by bringing his longtime teammate off the IR.

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In recent weeks, Aaron Rodgers has faced heavy criticism from both fans and analysts, with his underwhelming performance in the 2024 season fueling rumors that the team might consider benching him. Although Head Coach Jeff Ulbrich has stated that there have been no discussions about replacing him as quarterback, Rodgers’ age and a series of recent injuries have put him in a difficult position.

When Lazard was signed by the Jets in January, Rodgers was open about relying on his WR in the future.

“That’s one relationship that I’m going to lean into this offseason,” Rodgers said. “It was definitely frustrating for him. … I want to see him getting back to more of a positive mindset and feeling good about himself and his potential role in the offense. I’m going to lean into Allen. I have a lot of love and appreciation for him, but, obviously, this year didn’t go the way that he wanted.”

Maybe the pair will be able to turn things around in Week 14.

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