Don’t just look at the 4-12 record, there’s progress with the New York Jets.
There’s legitimate reason for optimism with the direction this team’s heading in. That much is clear after watching Sunday’s 28-24 loss to the Bucs.
Yes, the final score, specifically the final five minutes, was a body blow to the fan base. The primary focus for the Jets, however, is the development of their roster.
The play of the offensive line has played an integral role for head coach Robert Saleh and his staff.
This season the run game is averaging 4.46 yards per carry, the ninth best average in the league. Moreover, since rookie quarterback Zach Wilson returned from injury, the offense has produced 43 explosive plays. These consist of runs of 12+ yards and passes of 16+ yards. The Jets rank tied for sixth most explosive plays in the league.
Wilson’s making better decisions with the football since returning to action. This, along with a consistent ground attack, has allowed first-year offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur to tap into his creativity calling plays.
It all starts with the big boys upfront protecting Wilson and opening holes for the running backs.
We’re in a sports world where the word fluid has become another overused cliché. For the Jets, however, there’s no better description this season for the offensive line.
The unit has resembled a revolving door due to injuries. The Jets lost starting center Connor McGovern, along with left tackles Mekhi Becton and George Fant. Nevertheless, Dan Feeney and Chuma Edoga have stepped up to plug holes with success.
And where would the right side of the line be right now without veteran tackle Morgan Moses? Signed during the offseason and beginning the season as a reserve, Moses is the only linemen to play all 16 games on offense. He has brought experience and stability to the O-Line.
Furthermore, it can’t be overlooked what the team is getting from impressive rookie Alijah Vera-Tucker.
The work offensive line / run game coordinator John Benton has done to have this unit prepared every week shouldn’t go unnoticed.
With two first-round picks in the 2022 NFL Draft, the Jets will have more work to do with the roster. This is still very much a work in progress for Saleh, his staff, and general manager Joe Douglas. However, with Wilson and the O-Line showing growth, there’s something to build on for the future.
