A look at the Jets ups and downs of 2017
By Samuel Sutton
2017 was full of ups and downs for the New York Jets, but it goes to show how great this fanbase is. Here’s a look at some of the ups and downs of the team last year.
2017 had a lot of bumps, but overall, it was very progressive. The New York Jets started off the year well when they drafted safeties, Jamal Adams and Marcus Maye. Seeing as the team’s biggest need was defensive backs, these moves made the fans very happy. Unfortunately, that happiness quickly changed when the team started releasing all of their veterans.
From wide receiver Brandon Marshall to veteran linebacker David Harris, every release made the fans more and more frustrated. However, it at least made these fans understand that the team wanted to rebuild purely with young players. Or so it seemed.
Late in the offseason, the Jets picked up veteran journeyman quarterback Josh McCown. Not only did this frustrate fans, it seemed like it was going to throw this rebuilding plan completely off course. However, this feeling changed when everyone saw the leadership and skill McCown brought to the team.
Not only was he putting up good numbers, his veteran leadership motivated the young guys, which helped them progress faster. McCown’s presence helped every young player get better. Well, everyone but the young quarterbacks apparently.
Third-year quarterback Bryce Petty was a lot worse than he was last season and two-year quarterback Christian Hackenberg still has yet to see the field in a regular season game. This is probably the biggest downside of 2017. The Jets basically told its fanbase that neither of these quarterbacks is the answer for the future.
Knowing that, every Jets fan is hoping the team can draft a young quarterback in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Hopefully, if this happens, the team chooses to keep McCown as a mentor for the rookie. McCown was good, but because of his age, it’s pretty obvious he isn’t the future.
Overall, this season has been a rollercoaster ride and it’s a hopeful sign that the foundation is being set for a brighter future. Hopefully, this team can stay the path in 2018, and continue to improve and become a Super Bowl contender within the next couple of years.