The New York Jets snapped a lengthy losing streak in Week 15, securing their first victory since Halloween with a 32-25 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars.
After the win, Aaron Rodgers delivered a straightforward four-word message about the team’s performance:
“Too little, too late,” Rodgers said bluntly.
At 4-10, the Jets were already eliminated from playoff contention following their Week 14 loss to the Miami Dolphins. Yet their offensive breakout in the second half against Jacksonville has left fans wondering what could have been.
Jets Offense Shines Against the Jaguars
Rodgers had a standout game, throwing for 289 yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions.
Davante Adams was his go-to target, racking up nine catches for 198 yards and two touchdowns. One of those scores marked the 100th receiving touchdown of Adams’ career, making him just the 12th player in NFL history to reach that milestone.
Rodgers also showcased surprising mobility, leading the team in rushing with 45 yards while keeping plays alive under pressure.
“It is still special. It doesn’t taint it at all, it doesn’t steal any of the joy of it, it doesn’t take away any of the fun that is going to be on the bus just now or on the plane and then we have another bus to get back to the facility. It is still going to be special, it is always special,” Rodgers shared with the media. “This was a year of things that we were close but we kind of let it get away from us in the middle of the season.”
The Jets’ struggles in 2024 have been well-documented. They’ve blown five fourth-quarter leads—the most in franchise history for a single season—and are 0-7 in games decided by six points or fewer heading into Week 15.
Additionally, Jets pass catchers have dropped 29 passes this season, the most in the NFL. After relying on their defense and special teams in 2023, these factors have significantly contributed to the team’s regression in 2024.
Despite the disappointment, it’s not hard to envision a very different season for the Jets had a few plays gone their way.
Season Lost, but Future Uncertain
Any hopes of a miraculous postseason run are long gone for the Jets.
However, the team’s performance in the final weeks of the season could set the tone for 2025. Head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas have already been fired, but there’s a possibility that Rodgers, Adams, and others could return for another attempt next year.
The win over the Jaguars also moved the Jets out of the top spots in the 2025 NFL Draft, likely eliminating their chances of selecting a young quarterback in a shallow class. With limited appealing options available in free agency or via trade, the Jets may stick with Rodgers as their starter in 2025 under a new regime.
The Jets went all-in over the past two seasons and fell short. Perhaps the third time will be the charm for Gang Green in 2025.
