New York Jets linebacker Jermaine Johnson (11) hits Carolina Panthers quarterback Matt Corral (2) during the first half of an NFL preseason football game, Saturday, Aug. 12, 2023, in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Jacob Kupferman)
FLORHAM PARK — We’re just four days away from the New York Jets taking on the defending Super Bowl Champion Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday Night Football. For two teams that came into the year with high expectations, both are now on completely different paths.
New York lost their franchise quarterback four plays into the new season and have struggled to pick up the pieces. Kansas City, on the other hand, has shrugged off their opening night loss to look like the best team in football for another season.
The Jets have their work cut out for them. There’s no sugarcoating it. Despite the lack of faith many across the league (and most Jets’ fans) have, there’s a way for the team to still be able to come away with a major upset in Week 4.Â
To do so, five players need to step up in a big way. Today, we go through that here.
Jermaine Johnson
A breakout candidate during training camp, the start of the 2023 season hasn’t been kind to Jermaine Johnson. In three games, the former first-round pick has recorded a sack and 12 tackles, but an average Pro Football Focus grade of 60.7.Â
It’s not that he’s been bad, but for a defense that hasn’t gotten after the quarterback the last few games, not getting a consistent pass rush shines a light on the draft capital spent. For the Jets to even have a chance against Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs offense, pressure is key.Â
Unfortunately, Kansas City’s offensive line has given up less pressure than any team in football to this point. Johnson will need to be a major catalyst on Sunday night.Â
Mecole Hardman
This, of course, is only if Hardman is allowed to see the field. It’s quite perplexing how the Jets have refused to use one of their best offensive weapons this season while their…
Read the full article here
