With the New York Jets finally acquiring superstar quarterback Aaron Rodgers from the Green Bay Packers in a blockbuster trade, the storied NFL franchise must now focus on surrounding him with talent while also protecting him.
In December, Rodgers will reach the ripe old age of 40, usually at which most superstar quarterbacks have already retired for a few years.
That said, protection up front is crucial for the team’s success, as the Jets won’t be anywhere without a healthy Rodgers under center during the 2023 campaign.
The team must ensure the offensive line is ready to protect its new superstar quarterback, with the team declining the fifth-year option of Mekhi Becton being an interesting move.
Jets head coach Robert Saleh recently talked about Becton and what he sees on the offensive line moving forward via Harrison Glaser of Take Flight Media.
“Mekhi Becton looks fantastic. He’s attacking this offseason the right way & I’m excited for him. We’re gonna play our best five.”
Robert Saleh only committed to Laken at LG & AVT at RG. Said there will be competition at both T spots & at C#Jets
pic.twitter.com/YgBD28GTqT— Harrison Glaser (@NYJetsTFMedia) May 5, 2023
The tactic the team is likely taking with Becton is to motivate him to have a breakout year in 2023 in order to earn a lucrative contract extension in 2024.
The Las Vegas Raiders used the same tactic on running back Josh Jacobs, who exploded in 2022 and became one of the best backs in the league.
There’s no better time to have a motivated Becton, with Rodgers now calling the shots under center next season.
It’ll be interesting to see how everything pans out in New York this season and if the Rodgers experiment actually proves to be a success in the Big Apple, and if Becton plays a role in that success or failure.
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