AFC East Review: Have Jets caught up in highly competitive division?

There was plenty to like about the New York Jets in 2022. They had a top offensive rookie, a top-five defense, and finished with the most wins they have had in over seven years. 

And yet despite all the progress made, New York’s 7-10 record was good enough for another last-place finish in the AFC East. The division may have missed out on the “best overall” record to their NFC counterparts, but there is still plenty of talent the Jets will have to overcome if they want to be seen as a championship contender. 

With the expected imminent arrival of Aaron Rodgers though, the tides of the division certainly feel like they have turned. To look to see if that’s truly happened, let’s take a look at the rest of New York’s most hated foes. 

Buffalo Bills – trouble up north?

In all seriousness, the loss of Tremaine Edmunds and public frustrations of Stefon Diggs isn’t enough to take the Bills out of playoff contention. Buffalo has a top quarterback in Josh Allen, another running back threat in Damian Harris, and the return of Jordan Poyer. 

But should the Jets acquire Rodgers, are they a more complete roster than their northern rivals? It’s hard to see why they wouldn’t be. New York split the season series last year even though they outplayed Buffalo both at MetLife Stadium and on the road. The one edge Buffalo had (quarterback) won’t be the same overwhelming advantage as it has been in recent years.

When comparing the two rosters, New York has the better overall defense and plenty of consistent weapons to keep up with Josh Allen. 

As long as Aaron Rodgers is calling the shots, Gang Green should be pretty confident going into 2023. 

New England Patriots – Belichick’s dysfunctional mess

When was the last time the Patriots have shown to be more dysfunctional than the Jets? New York may be in the negotiating phase with Green Bay over Aaron Rodgers but compare that to what’s going on in New England and the two teams couldn’t be further…