Aaron Rodgers and the New York Jets are being hyped up once again this offseason as a potential dark-horse Super Bowl contender for the upcoming 2024 NFL season. Just like last year, the media is all about the Jets as long as Rodgers is healthy and producing on the field. Even after the heartbreaking Achilles injury, Rodgers is expected by most to come back strong and lead the franchise to success.
Since acquiring Rodgers from the Green Bay Packers last offseason, the Jets have made quite a few moves to bring Rodgers’ favorites to New York. Among those moves are Allen Lazard and Randall Cobb.
Another move could be on the way that would appease Rodgers. The Jets are being urged to target one of his former tight ends.
ESPN’s Aaron Schatz believes that the Jets should look to pursue free agent tight end Robert Tonyan.
“The Jets have a pretty steady and deep roster across the board, with the big issue being the lack of a star at tight end. Tyler Conklin, who signed with New York from the Vikings in 2022, hasn’t had a positive receiving DVOA in six NFL seasons and ranked 43rd among qualifying tight ends in the past two seasons. … New York should consider bringing in quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ former Green Bay target Robert Tonyan, who is still a free agent.”
What Would Robert Tonyan Bring For Aaron Rodgers, New York Jets?
Last season, Tonyan ended up playing for the Chicago Bears. He was relatively a non-factor in that offense, catching just 11 passes for 112 yards.
Back in 2022, however, with Rodgers leading the way in Green Bay, Tonyan had a better year. He caught 53 passes for 470 yards and two touchdowns. Those numbers still aren’t great, but he was still an impact player.
Reuniting Rodgers with Tonyan would make sense for the Jets, as they do have a need at the tight end position. Tonyan already has build trust up with Rodgers and could seamlessly integrate himself into the offense.
Joe Douglas has clearly been focused on doing whatever it takes to drive success for the New York Jets. He has made quite a few big moves this offseason and is no doubt open to anything that improves the team’s chances for contention in 2024. Tonyan would not be an expensive signing and he’s well worth giving a shot.
One thing that has been very clear about Rodgers throughout his career is that he thrives in situations that make him comfortable. If he has a connection with a receiver or tight end, he wants to keep playing with that player. Rodgers was always very vocal about his support for Tonyan.
All of that being said, it will be interesting to see if the Jets give Tonyan a chance. If they do, it seems likely that he would stick on the roster with Rodgers being one of his biggest fans.
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