The New York Jets have officially released wide receiver Allen Lazard, marking the end of their connections to the tumultuous Aaron Rodgers era. This decision, made on December 12, 2023, comes as the Jets aim to evaluate their younger receiving talent amidst a challenging season, currently standing with a record of 3-11.
Lazard, 30, had become a peripheral figure on the Jets’ offense, appearing as a healthy scratch in four games this season. According to sources, he requested his release with the hope of joining a team with playoff aspirations. His tenure with the Jets did not meet expectations following his signing of a four-year, $44 million contract in March 2023, a strategic move intended to attract Rodgers to New York.
Despite a promising connection with Rodgers during their five seasons together with the Green Bay Packers, Lazard struggled to find consistent playing time in his three seasons with the Jets. He recorded 70 receptions for 911 yards and eight touchdowns, but this season, his opportunities were limited. He played only 250 snaps and finished with just 10 catches for 70 yards and one touchdown.
In a notable turn of events, Lazard had accepted an $8.75 million pay cut last offseason to remain with the Jets, despite speculation that his time with the team was over after Rodgers was released in March. The Jets opted to void the final year of his contract, making him a free agent at the end of this season, further emphasizing their shift away from the Rodgers-led era.
With Lazard’s departure, the Jets are now focusing on younger receivers, including Adonai Mitchell, John Metchie III, and Isaiah Williams. The team has also faced challenges with injuries; top receiver Garrett Wilson has been sidelined for the past five games due to a knee injury, and Coach Aaron Glenn expressed uncertainty about Wilson’s potential return this season.
In addition to Lazard’s release, the Jets have also let go of quarterback Adrian Martinez from their practice squad. This move suggests that injured veterans Justin Fields and Tyrod Taylor may be on track to return for their upcoming game against the New Orleans Saints. Following a loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, Coach Glenn refrained from naming a starting quarterback for the next match, stating that while rookie Brady Cook performed well during his first NFL start, he also made some typical rookie mistakes.
As the Jets navigate the remainder of the season, the focus will likely remain on integrating younger talent and reassessing their strategy moving forward. The release of Lazard signifies a broader shift as the team seeks to redefine its identity beyond the Rodgers era.
