5 way too early stat predictions for the NY Jets in 2023

2. Carl Lawson will set a new career-high for sacks

I'm not saying he's about to revive the New York Sack Exchange but it will be a great year for Lawson. I've mentioned time and time again how hard he's worked coming back from his Achilles injury (and setback) and how Coach Robert Saleh has always spoken so highly of his work ethic.

Saleh also implied that Lawson wasn't close to 100% last year and that this would be better, so the fact that they are opting to keep him instead of cutting him and saving $15.4 million speaks volumes to his importance to the defensive line rotation.

He has yet to surpass the 8.5 sacks he accumulated in his rookie season but with all of the attention going to All-Pro Quinnen Williams (assuming he plays this year) there will be opportunities for the Jets' explosive edge rushers to get to the quarterback.

Lawson has always been great at getting pressures but the sack either eludes him or ends up going to someone else who reaps the benefit of Lawson forcing a QB scramble. This time around, I think it will be Quinnen who is forcing the QB to scramble into Lawson's waiting arms. At least nine times.