Latest bold predictions for the New York Jets
By: Jake Rajala
The New York Jets have a rebellion-like hope that their 2022 season will be more successful than their 2021 campaign. The Jets are also holding optimism that the second-year QB Zach Wilson, who recently suffered a meniscus tear, can start in Week 1. With that enunciated, I’m going to take a fun angle with the Jets 2022 season outlook and untwine 10 bold predictions for the Jets in 2022.
- Corey Davis makes the Pro Bowl
The former Tennessee Titans WR Corey Davis has been a stud this summer as the Jets WR1, to say the least. The most recent impressive play by Davis was his one-handed catch in the Jets-Falcons joint practice. I expect Wilson’s growth to depend on Davis and he will surely send lots of impressive darts and even prayers to his number one wideout in the upcoming season.
- Breece Hall runs for 1,000+ yards
The Jets 2022 second-round pick RB Breece Hall had a monster 70-yard TD run in camp yesterday. Brian Costello of the New York Post believes that Carter will be the Jets lead RB in 2022. Hall was an unstoppable work-horse for Iowa State in 2021 (1,472 rushing yds and 20 rushing TDs) and in 2020 (1,572 rushing yds and 21 rushing TDs). I foresee Hall continuing to torch defenses as an NFL rookie.
- Quinnen Williams has double-digit sacks
The Jets need former Alabama star Quinnen Williams to perform like he was drafted third overall in the 2019 NFL draft. Williams has been a modest performer with Gregg Williams and Robert Saleh over the past two seasons. Williams notched 7 sacks, 14 QB hits, and three pass deflections in 13 games in 2020 and he then exhibited six sacks, 12 QB hits, and 7 tackles for loss in 15 match-ups last season. I trust that he will slightly up his contest, stay healthy, and unleash double-digit sacks in 2022.
- Sauce Gardner makes second-team All-Pro
I like Aidan Hutchinson’s chances at winning DROY. However, I still believe Sauce Garnder, aka the Jets fourth overall pick in the 2022 draft, will be a nightmare against opposing signal-callers. In fact, I believe he can continue to be an extremely talented shut-down CB and garner second-team AP honors in his rookie campaign. He may be the next legendary CB after Darrelle Revis for Jets fans.
- C.J. Mosley earns a Pro Bowl nod
The Jets LB C.J. Mosley had a bounce-back season in 2021 in my opinion: 168 combined tackles, two sacks, 3 QB hits, and 2 FFs. I expect him to blossom in year two of Saleh’s scheme along an improved DL and garner his fifth-straight PB honors.
- Greg Zuerlein makes 30+ field goals
Greg the Leg still has a strong leg, fascinating ego, and the ability to be consistent in the league. He converted 29 field goals in 2021 and I believe he will be called on to make a lot of kicks for NY in 2022. He’s only converted 30+ FGs in two NFL seasons, but I expect him to crack 30+ FGs in the near future.
- The Jets obtain eight victories
It would be an understatement to say it wouldn’t be easy for the Jets to make the playoffs in the frigid AFC East next season. Nonetheless, I believe they can still take a big step from their four win season in 2021 to eight victories in 2022. The Jets have a talented and ascending QB, an extremely motivated HC in Robert Saleh, even more weaponry than last season, and they have one of the most talented rookies in Sauce Gardner.
- Solomon Thomas has 7+ sacks
Saleh and Solomon Thomas reunited in the Big Apple – as Thomas played under Saleh in SF. The former 49ers DL registered 3.5 sacks, 12 QB hits, and 2 FFs last season. I believe Thomas will have a career season (which will include 7+ sacks) alongside Williams on the DL. Saleh is in NY on a one-year deal worth $2.5 million dollars.
- Denzel Mims has 5+ touchdowns
At this point, I believe that the Jets will hold onto Denzel Mims for another season. He may not be a Top 3 WR on the depth chart, but his physicality should help him excel in the red-zone. I believe he can find unique success in the Jets offense and haul in at least five touchdown receptions in 2022.
- Duane Brown makes the Pro Bowl
The Jets new OT Duane Brown may be 36 years old, but he is absolutely talented football player. Brown made the Pro Bowl last season and notched a modest 71.5 grade by PFF. I believe he will do an admirable job against the likes of Von Miller and punch another ticket to the Pro Bowl.
