Upcoming Episode of ‘Hard Knocks’ to Focus on New York Jets & Aaron Rodgers
Upcoming Episode of ‘Hard Knocks’ to Focus on New York Jets & Aaron Rodgers
The New York Jets and Aaron Rodgers are apparently going to be the focus of the 2023 season of the HBO series that investigates NFL training camps.
The New York Jets enter the 2023 season as the most dramatic franchise in the NFL. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the NFL and NFL Films have chosen the Jets as the focus of this year’s edition of “Hard Knocks,” and this should come as no surprise.
One of the most fascinating, divisive, skilled, or annoying athletes in the NFL is on the Jets’ roster this year: Aaron Rodgers.
One of the most intriguing themes of the season will be how Rodgers fits in with the Jets’ current squad and system, and how the Jets adapt to Rodgers. And now, thanks to “Hard Knocks,” we’ll get a sneak peek at the drama that’s bound to unfold.
Coach Robert Saleh of the Jets had argued against the choice. Earlier this summer, Saleh said, “I know there are several teams that would love for ‘Hard Knocks’ to be in their building.” In other words, “We’re just not one of them.”
However, the NFL was limited in its options due to the “Hard Knocks” requirements already in place for teams:
There have been no first-year head coaches in the recent decade, and the team has not made the playoffs in either of the past two seasons or been on “Hard Knocks” in the past decade.
Four teams met the requirements, and while the Commanders, Saints, and Bears all have interesting backstories, the Jets have far more promise.
The Jets will have “Game of Thrones”-level drama, albeit with less actual slaughter and dragonfire, thanks to Rodgers, the oversized personality of cornerback Sauce Gardner, and the contract difficulties of defensive tackle Quinnen Williams.
On July 19, the Jets will begin training camp. Though no launch date has been set, “Hard Knocks” typically airs on HBO on Tuesday nights at 10 p.m. ET.
