The Jets start their season against the Steelers and old friend Aaron Rodgers, the new Pittsburgh quarterback.
But one of the Jets who is best known for being a long-time friend of Rodgers won’t be on the field: wide receiver Allen Lazard is a healthy scratch for Sunday’s season opener.
It’s not an earth-shattering surprise. But it’s unexpected and doesn’t make much sense at first glance. Especially considering that wide receiver Tyler Johnson, who was cut, signed back to the practice squad, and was then elevated for Sunday’s game.
Why would the Jets have kept Lazard on the roster if they didn’t plan to use him? Perhaps it it’s the guaranteed money (around $2 million) on his deal. Perhaps they were concerned he would sign with the Steelers if they did cut him?
It’s hard to say, especially after coach Aaron Glenn raved about Lazard’s ability earlier this year. But it does make sense in terms of keeping some explosive playmakers on the field. Rookie Arian Smith would have been a candidate to be inactive if Lazard played. And with him they have a player who can contrbute on special teams and who has major, take-the-top off the defense speed.
Obviously, Garrett Wilson is the top receiver. Josh Reynolds is now likely to be the No. 2 spot. and then it’s likely to be some combination of Smith and Johnson in the No. 3 spot. The Jets also have Xavier Gipson, but we’d be surprised if he has much of a role outside of returning punts.
Smith is joined by every other Jets draft pick on the active list, which means all of them will make their NFL debuts: starting right tackle Armand Membou, starting tight end Mason Taylor, cornerback Aazareye’h Thomas, linebacker Kiko Mauiguoa, safety Malachi Moore, and defensive end Tyler Baron.
Edge rusher Jermaine Johnson is also active and set to play for the first time since tearing his Achilles in Week 2 last year.
Here is the full list of inactive players for the Jets: WR Allen Lazard, DL Braiden McGregor, OT Esa Pole, TE Jelani Woods, DL Mason Taylor III.
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Andy Vasquez may be reached atavasquez@njadvancemedia.com.
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