The New York Jets secured an improbable win over the Buffalo Bills in Week 1, but the trajectory of their season is now altered drastically with Aaron Rodgers sustaining a season-ending Achilles injury. Even with Rodgers sidelined for the rest of the season, Touchdown Wire’s Jarrett Bailey listed the Jets at No. 6 in the Week 2 power rankings.
All the excitement that was built up for the Jets entering the season quickly faded away on the first offensive drive of Monday’s matchup with the Bills. The Jets finally felt like they had an elite quarterback operating the offense to match what is expected to be a top-tier defensive unit, only for Rodgers to sustain a torn Achilles.
Upon Rodgers’ exit from the primetime contest, Zach Wilson took his place at quarterback. The defense was remarkable, forcing four turnovers on Josh Allen, including three interceptions from standout safety Jordan Whitehead.
After the defense stood tall again upon forcing a three-and-out on the Bills to begin overtime, undrafted rookie wideout Xavier Gipson returned the ensuing punt 65 yards to give the Jets the unlikely victory.
The Jets certainly have a talented roster, but they no longer have a future Hall of Famer at the most important position on the field. With Wilson now being handed the keys to the offense, it’s hard to envision the Jets keeping their place in the power rankings moving forward.