Garrett Wilson Reflects on Aaron Rodgers Departure Ahead of Jets Season Opener

As the New York Jets gear up for their season opener, wide receiver Garrett Wilson has made headlines by revealing he hasn’t maintained contact with former teammate Aaron Rodgers. Their once-promising partnership, anticipated to have a transformative effect on the team, has seemingly fizzled since Rodgers’ trade.

The Breakdown of Communication

Garrett Wilson, who logged an impressive 98 receptions from Rodgers last season, confirmed the lack of communication following Rodgers’ exit from the Jets.

“I ain’t talked to Aaron since he left,” Wilson stated after practice on Thursday. “I wish him the best this season, but we ain’t chopped it up since he left.”

This absence of connection comes in stark contrast to their past collaboration, which included Wilson’s significant rise in targets before the unexpected arrival of Davante Adams.

The Impact of Davante Adams’ Trade

The trade for Adams, a long-time target of Rodgers from their days with the Green Bay Packers, shifted dynamics within the Jets’ receiving corps. As Adams became the focal point of the offense, Wilson’s targets dwindled, leading to noticeable frustration.

• Decrease in Targets: Wilson’s production suffered significantly after Adams joined the team.
• Public Frustrations: In December, Wilson expressed his discontent saying, “I’d like to be involved, love to make an impact on the game, but people see it differently.”

Following the season, the Jets opted to release Adams, restoring Wilson as the team’s primary receiver. They recognized his value with a lucrative four-year, $130 million extension.

Lessons Learned from Aaron Rodgers

Despite the tumultuous relationship, Wilson maintains a level of respect for Rodgers and the experience gained while playing alongside him.

“Obviously, I got the opportunity to play with a living legend in this game,” Wilson reflected. “Every day I got to learn something… I learned a lot.”

This acknowledgment underscores Wilson’s dedication to improving his craft, taking every opportunity to soak in knowledge from a seasoned veteran.

Reflecting on the Past and Moving Forward

Rodgers’ tenure with the Jets did not meet external expectations. The season was marred by injury and inconsistent performances, ultimately failing to yield significant success.

"When it came to Sundays, we didn’t play our best football," Wilson commented, addressing the challenges experienced throughout the past season.

With Rodgers now replaced by Justin Fields, Wilson is optimistic about the upcoming season. The introduction of new head coach Aaron Glenn invigorates the team’s dynamic.

A Promising Outlook

• Team Chemistry: Wilson noted the competitive spirit during the offseason, emphasizing a shift in mindset.
• Preparedness: "We were competitive as hell this offseason… it’s a little different this time around," he added.

As the Jets look to capitalize on their preseason work, fans remain eager to see whether the changes will lead to a more fruitful season.

For more details on Wilson and the Jets’ preparations, visit NFL.com and catch the latest updates.

This article provides insights into Garrett Wilson’s views on Aaron Rodgers’ departure, the impact of Davante Adams’ trade, and the promising outlook for the Jets’ 2023 season. With renewed focus and a new quarterback, the Jets hope to channel their offseason energy into success on the field.