NFL rumors: Aaron Rodgers connection could help Jets add TD machine in free agency

March 12, 2023 ndowd

The New York Jets are trying to acquire quarterback Aaron Rodgers, but they are also interested in signing one of his former Green Bay Packers teammates.

The New York Jets are aiming high on improving their quarterback situation, reportedly eyeing a trade for Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

This past week, the Jets flew to California to meet with the four-time NFL MVP after receiving permission from the Packers, and are reportedly confident that they will be able to trade for him. All they need is for Rodgers to give his approval, and there’s no set timeline for that.

While the Jets wait for Rodgers, they are reportedly interested in one of his former Packers teammates.

According to Go Long TD’s Tyler Dunne, the Jets are interested in running back Jamaal Williams, who is a free agent. New York is joined by the Buffalo Bills and Cincinnati Bengals in terms of interest. Dunne also notes that Williams has mutual interest to return to the Detroit Lions, his team for the past two seasons.

Free agency nugget to pass along. There’s mutual interest in Jamaal Williams returning to Detroit, but a source told me today that Buffalo, Cincinnati and the New York Jets are all very interested in the running back.

Williams led the NFL with 17 rushing TDs last year.

— Tyler Dunne (@TyDunne) March 11, 2023

Jets reportedly interested in Aaron Rodgers’ former Packers teammate Jamaal Williams

Prior to leading the entire NFL in rushing touchdowns this past season, Williams was a member of the Packers from 2017-20. During his time, he split carries with starting running back Aaron Jones. During his four seasons with the Packers he had 1,985 yards and 10 touchdowns on 500 carries while catching 122 passes for 961 yards and eight touchdowns on 155 targets.

Following the 2020 season, Williams signed a two-year, $6 million contract. After rushing for 601 yards and three touchdowns in 13 games during the 2021 season, Williams set the stat sheet on fire during this past season.

In all 17 games played, Williams recorded 1,066 rushing yards and a league-high 17 rushing touchdowns on 262 carries. That’s right, Williams averaged a rushing touchdown a game during the 2022 season.

The Jets adding Williams to their running back depth chart would really put them over the top. After all, running back Breece Hall played like a legitimate Offensive Rookie of the Year candidate before tearing his ACL in Week 7. Not to mention they have Michael Carter and Zonovan Knight under contract as well.

On March 13, the free agency negotiation window officially opens up in the NFL. While the Jets wait for Rodgers’ answer, it will certainly be something if they are able to sign Williams.

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