NY Jets news: Aaron Rodgers talks heating up, Rex Ryan interview
By Justin Fried
If you've been following the NY Jets news cycle over the last month or two, you would already be well aware of the team's interest in Aaron Rodgers. It seems pretty clear that Rodgers is the Jets' top quarterback target this offseason.
That's why, when ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported on Sunday that the Jets had "inquired about the availability" of the Green Bay Packers quarterback, few were surprised.
Rodgers is still uncertain about his NFL future. He's insisted that all options remain on the table — that includes returning to the Packers, leaving for a new team, and yes, even retirement.
The Jets, and every other NFL team for that matter, are at Rodgers' mercy, but they've checked in on his status. This situation is on hold, however, until Rodgers makes up his mind.
Other NY Jets news
Rex Ryan interviewing with the Denver Broncos
A surprise name has emerged as a candidate for the Denver Broncos' vacant defensive coordinator position, and it's none other than former Jets head coach Rex Ryan.
Ryan hasn't coached in the NFL since 2016 during his failed two-year stint as head coach of the Buffalo Bills. Despite this, new Broncos head coach Sean Payton remains interested in the longtime NFL coach.
Payton previously worked with Ryan's brother, Rob Ryan, in New Orleans, so there's a sense of familiarity there. The decision has received plenty of criticism, however, seeing as though Ryan hasn't coached in nearly seven years.
That said, it sure would be fun to see Ryan back in the NFL, especially if that means we get videos of him interacting with Payton, Russell Wilson, and others.
Jets 'on Derek Carr's list of targets' in free agency
Derek Carr is set to hit free agency as the soon-to-be-former Las Vegas Raiders quarterback has opted not to waive his no-trade clause. He will hit the open market, and one team that could show some interest is the Jets.
NFL insider Adam Caplan reported on Sunday that the Jets are expected to be "on [Carr's] list of targets" in free agency. Even though Rodgers remains the team's top option, they will do their due diligence on Carr as well.
The Jets will have their fair share of competitors, however. Most notably the New Orleans Saints, who Carr visited with last week. They remain the odds-on favorites to land Carr this offseason.
The Jets aren't out of the running yet, but it does seem unlikely that this marriage happens.