Key Takeaways:
* Veteran Wide Receiver Allen Lazard may not make the New York Jets’ roster cuts
* The Jets have signed impressive new receiver talent for the 2024 season
* Lazard’s poor performance in 2023 has put his position on the team in jeopardy
Allen Lazard Faces Uncertain Future with Jets
Despite Allen Lazard’s $44 million contract with the New York Jets, he might be on the chopping block as the team finalizes its 53-man roster. New recruitments for the upcoming season have launched Lazard into a precarious position.
Veteran receiver Lazard, who made a significant splash as an undrafted free agent (UDFA), may be rendered expendable due to recent roster changes. Prominent sports analyst David Kenyon of Bleacher Report listed Lazard among several established veterans who might not make the cut. He noted that, despite the influence of star quarterback Aaron Rodgers, Lazard’s dismal 23-catch record last year could be his Achilles’ heel.
The Unusual Success of Allen Lazard
Lazard’s journey to the NFL was unconventional but noteworthy. Following an exceptional academic career as a three-time All-Big 12 selection at Iowa State, Lazard was overlooked in the 2018 NFL Draft. Thankfully, the Jacksonville Jaguars picked him up, but it was only when Lazard moved to the Green Bay Packers later that his professional career truly kicked off.
After five successful seasons with the Packers, Lazard sought his first significant payday in free agency in 2023. The Jets were happy to pick him up, signing him to a four-year deal valued at $44 million. Regrettably, both Lazard and the Jets suffered a challenging year in 2023, with Rodgers suffering a season-ending injury and Lazard’s underwhelming performance on the field.
Potential Replacements for Lazard
New York Jets’ General Manager, Joe Douglas, has ensured the team is well stocked with impressive receiver talent for the 2024 season. Mike Williams, a former Los Angeles Charger, is a significant part of the new roster. Although Williams is coming off an injury, he has shown potential as a reliable and high-performing receiver in the past. He was signed to a one-year, $10 million contract by the Jets.
Additionally, the team has added a new recruit, Malachi Corley, to the ranks. Corley, a rookie from Western Kentucky, brings a unique skillset and could provide additional firepower to the Jets offense in 2024. His addition, along with Williams, could shift the dynamics significantly, giving Garrett Wilson some much-needed relief and opening up the Jets offense.
The Future for Lazard
Unless there is a considerable shift in Lazard’s performance during training camp, he may not survive the upcoming roster cuts. Despite his bond with Rodgers and past successes, his future with the Jets looks uncertain. Their new wide receivers present a significant challenge to his position on the team.
Ultimately, the fate of Allen Lazard with the Jets will be decided in the eagerly anticipated training camp. Whether or not he will take to the field as part of the Jets’ 2024 campaign remains to be seen.