The New York Jets are reportedly considering keeping Allen Lazard on their roster, despite earlier expectations that the veteran wide receiver would be released ahead of free agency.
The move comes as a surprise to many, given that the Jets had granted Lazard and his representatives permission to seek a trade, which ultimately did not materialize.
According to Zack Rosenblatt of The Athletic, the fact that Lazard remains part of the team is one of the biggest surprises of the offseason.
“The biggest shocker of free agency for the Jets so far might be that Lazard remains on the roster – and until further notice is their best option as the No. 2 wide receiver,” Rosenblatt stated.
Why the Jets are considering keeping Lazard
Many assumed Lazard would be cut due to his $13.2 million cap charge. However, Rich Cimini of ESPN highlighted that the lack of proven wide receivers on the Jets’ roster, combined with a shallow free agent market, might influence the team’s decision to retain Lazard.
“Considering the dearth of proven receivers on the roster and the lack of quality in the free agent market, it would be prudent to keep Lazard, perhaps reworking his contract. He and Wilson are the only two pass catchers (wideouts and tight ends) with more than one touchdown reception last season,” Cimini explained.
Lazard currently has two years remaining on his $44 million contract, and without clear alternatives for an upgrade, the Jets may decide to continue utilizing him as their WR2. This comes despite the fact that his performance with the Jets has been inconsistent since joining the team.
Lazard’s journey with the Jets and connection to Aaron Rodgers
Lazard joined the Jets as part of a high-profile attempt to reunite with Aaron Rodgers, his former quarterback during his first five seasons with the Green Bay Packers. During his final season with the Packers, Lazard had a career-high year with 60 catches for 788 yards and six touchdowns.
However, since moving to the Jets, Lazard has struggled to replicate that level of production. Over two seasons with the Jets, he has managed only 841 receiving yards, though his strong start to the 2024 season, which included an 89-yard, two-touchdown performance against the San Francisco 49ers, showed glimpses of his potential.
Unfortunately, his campaign was interrupted by an absence from Weeks 8 to 13, and his limited play during the final stretch of the season raised questions about his future with the team.
What’s next for Allen Lazard?
While the Jets‘ decision to keep Lazard remains uncertain, many speculate that the team may attempt to restructure his contract to make it more financially manageable. With Garrett Wilson as the clear WR1, the Jets are struggling to find reliable depth at the position.
As free agency continues, the Jets’ handling of Lazard‘s situation will be closely watched. For now, Lazard’s fate remains undecided, but his connection to Aaron Rodgers and lack of immediate replacement options suggest he may still play a role in the Jets’ future plans.
