Predicting Jets final win-loss record in 2018

The preseason and regular season schedules have been officially released by the NFL. How many games can the New York Jets realistically win in 2018? Here’s an early prediction.

Heading into the 2018 NFL Draft, the league officially released both the preseason and regular season schedules for football fanatics across the world. Fans are already planning their road trips, what to do different in tailgating, and of course, how good or bad their team will probably be this upcoming season. The New York Jets, even at this point in time, are still a rebuilding team that has a lot of work ahead of themselves.

When it comes to rebuilding a team the right way, it can take anywhere between two to three years for everything to fall into place. The Jets are ideally in year two of rebuilding the right way that started last offseason. General manager Mike Maccagnan began purging the roster of overpaid, aging, and underproductive players in hopes of bringing in younger players that fit the culture being established by head coach Todd Bowles.

It’s not easy but the Jets are almost there. They still have glaring issues when it comes to their defensive line, pass rush, and as always, quarterback. Hopefully, they’ll be able to address the most important position on the team in this year’s draft.

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But remember, it’s not like the Jets are going to magically be a playoff contender this upcoming season just because they added a few pieces via free agency and will be drafting their next franchise quarterback. Patience is key since it’s expected that Josh McCown will be starting come Week 1 of the regular season and we all know what the Jets can get out of him.

Could a rookie quarterback or even Teddy Bridgewater dethrone McCown in training camp? It’s too early to tell but for right now, expect it to be McCown. Knowing that and looking at the strength of schedule for the Jets, they will likely be on the outside looking in.

Expect the Jets to be a 6-10 or maybe if they can squeeze out an extra win over a division rival, probably 7-9 once all is said and done. It remains to be seen how their pass rush will look this upcoming season and how efficient their offense is in regards to keeping those chains moving and actually ending drives with touchdowns. These were two critical areas that produced lackluster results as the Jets are coming off two straight seasons with a 5-11 final record.

Unless they get a younger quarterback under center ready to make some serious noise as a starter and a consistent pass rush that can bring the heat, the Jets will likely be at the bottom of the AFC East yet again in 2018.