As we prepare for another intriguing NFL season, the New York Jets, under the guidance of head coach Robert Saleh, defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, and notably, offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett, present a mix of challenges and opportunities for fantasy football enthusiasts.
Nathaniel Hackett’s Impact on the Offense
Nathaniel Hackett’s tenure as an offensive coordinator has been mixed, with stark contrasts in team performance year over year. His time with the 2017 Jacksonville Jaguars was notable, leading them to 5th in scoring and a dominant running game. However, other years such as 2018 and subsequent performances with the Packers showed less stellar outcomes. The key question remains: can the return of veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers turn the tide in Hackett’s favor despite past inconsistencies?
Quarterbacks: Aaron Rodgers (ADP QB20 / My Rank QB20)
Despite ranking veteran QB Aaron Rodgers at QB20, which might seem low for a player of his caliber, there’s a method to the madness. Last seen as QB13 in 2022 without a top-tier receiver, Rodgers now has weapons like Garrett Wilson and Breece Hall. The last time he played with an elite WR1, Davante Adams, in 2021 Rodgers was QB6.
If Rodgers stays healthy, there’s potential for him to outperform his ADP. Rodgers’ ADP of QB20 is more of a reflection on the depth of QBs with upside this season than a remark on Rodgers declining. This should emphasize a strategy to wait on drafting quarterbacks in fantasy due to the depth at the position this year.
Running Backs: Breece Hall (ADP RB2 / My Rank RB3)
Breece Hall is poised to be a fantasy powerhouse, with little competition in the Jets’ backfield. Late Day 3 picks Braelon Allen and Isaiah Davis combined with 2nd year Israel Abanikanda round out the team’s depth chart. No one has a significant enough investment to think the team will turn the situation into a committee anytime soon.
Now two years post-ACL injury. Hall fresh off ACL recovery managed to impress as RB6 on a points-per-game basis in half-PPR leagues last year. With a top-three fantasy pick value in 2024, Hall’s workhorse status makes him a cornerstone for any fantasy team, assuming he stays clear of injuries.
Wide Receivers: Garrett Wilson, Mike Williams, and Malachi Corley
Garrett Wilson (ADP WR8 / My Rank WR7)
Wilson could have had a breakout season if not for Rodgers’ injury. Ranking 4th in targets last season with 100 receptions and still only finishing as WR39 on a points-per-game basis underscores the poor QB play. A boost in efficiency from Rodgers could elevate him into the top 8 wide receivers. Last season Wilson had the 2nd lowest yards per target mark at 6.2 amongst all WRs with 100 or more receptions.
Mike Williams (ADP WR49 / My Rank WR53)
Williams continues to be a boom-bust WR4 option, plagued by injuries and inconsistent performances. Williams last reached his ceiling in 2021 when he finished as the WR10. Since then he has consistently disappointed relative to his ADP value.
Transitioning from Justin Herbert to Rodgers in a Hackett-led offense does not necessarily spell improvement either. There are other younger options with more plausible upside in a similar tier to Williams this year.
Malachi Corley (ADP WR76 / My Rank WR60)
Corley, a third-round pick, might not be a polished route runner, but his ability after the catch and potential for increased playing time in three-receiver sets make him an intriguing late-round pick, especially in best-ball leagues.
It’s notable that the well-known curmudgeon Rodgers when it comes to rookies, has extended an invite to Corely to join him in his home over the summer. Assuming Corely takes advantage it stands to reason chemistry could be built sooner rather than later. Perhaps shortening Corley’s rookie handicap within the offense.
Tight Ends: Tyler Conklin (ADP TE26 / My Rank TE21)
Tyler Conklin, often overshadowed, had consistently garnered a target share that landed him 2nd on the team. He has accrued 87 targets the last 3 seasons in a row averaging 500-600 yards each of those years. While new additions to the receiver corps likely cap any room for improvement, Conklin’s steady production places him as a viable TE2 in deeper leagues.
Overall, the New York Jets present a fascinating case for fantasy managers in 2024. The combination of seasoned talents and promising newcomers, all under Nathaniel Hackett and the leadership of Aaron Rodgers, creates a potential boom to the whole of this offense.
This article was written by Dan Mader @DanMaderFF. Come join Fantasy Football Advice Network for more content discussions. Enjoy previous articles like Fantasy Football Spotlight: Philadelphia Eagles and Fantasy Football Team Profile: Miami Dolphins.
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