Talk about a bold statement.
NBC Sports NFL analyst Cris Collinsworth said the New York Jets could be the next Cincinnati Bengals. Per The Spun:
Cris Collinsworth is “intrigued” by the New York Jets as a dark horse candidate to take a significant step forward this season. “I just feel like if there’s a team out there that can make a jump this year and surprise everybody ... the Jets, maybe they’re that team this year,” Collinsworth said on his podcast last week.
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In 2020, with rookie quarterback Joe Burrow in the huddle, the Bengals finished in last place in the AFC North with a record of 4-11-1.
In 2021, the Bengals went 10-7 to win the AFC North and secure its first playoff appearance since 2015. Cincinnati won the AFC Championship and advanced to Super Bowl LVI, where it lost to the Los Angeles Rams, 23-20.
Can the Jets write a similar rags-to-riches story? Well, in 2021, with rookie quarterback Zach Wilson in the huddle, the Jets finished in last place in the AFC East with a record of 4-13. So yes, the stage would seem to be set for the Jets, who haven’t smelled the postseason since 2010.
Why is Collinsworth so high on the Jets?
Collinsworth likes the addition of offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur to implement a San Francisco 49ers-style offense for head coach Robert Saleh. The Jets also drafted high-profile talent in cornerback Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner, wide receiver Garrett Wilson, and running back Breece Hall.
MORE NFL:
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- Patriots’ Mac Jones believes in ex-Giants head coach Joe Judge
- Giants’ 2-time Super Bowl champion goes back to school to begin coaching career
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Mike Rosenstein may be reached at mrosenstein@njadvancemedia.com.
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