In anticipation of the Sunday Night Football face-off in Week 2, the New York Jets have been busy rearranging their roster to face the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Two vital changes have occurred: a shuffle in the kicking position due to an injury and an essential backup quarterback decision due to an unforeseen circumstance. So what will be the Jets starting QB tonight against the Cowboys?
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Who will be Jets’ Starting QB against Cowboys – SNF Week 2
The New York Jets’ 2023 season has already taken a dramatic turn with the unfortunate injury to Aaron Rodgers. Considered one of the premier quarterbacks in the NFL, Rodgers’ injury has undoubtedly left a void in the team’s offensive prowess. However, it’s not all doom and gloom for the Jets. Stepping up to the plate is former first-round pick, Zach Wilson.
In just a short span, Wilson has demonstrated his worth by leading the team to an impressive overtime victory against the Buffalo Bills in Week 1. The young QB showcased resilience and skill, giving Jets fans a glimpse of hope amidst adversity.
Kicking Woes: Zuerlein Out with Injury
Greg Zuerlein, a veteran kicker of the New York Jets, suffered a groin injury during a Thursday practice session, ruling him out of the pivotal matchup against the Cowboys. The Jets were optimistic about Zuerlein’s chances of playing, especially since he was listed as ‘questionable’ on the official injury report. However, as game day approached, it became evident that the 35-year-old wouldn’t be able to participate.
Robert Saleh, the third-year head coach of the Jets, reflected on the situation. “We’re 50-50 [on whether he will play], working out kickers today,” Saleh commented. He further added, “It’s not serious, but serious enough to bring this game in question.”
Austin Seibert Steps Up
In light of Zuerlein’s absence, the Jets swiftly moved to fill the gap, bringing in Austin Seibert. Seibert initially entered the NFL as a fifth-round draft pick for the Cleveland Browns back in 2019. He had since joined the Jets’ Practice Squad and has now been elevated to the active roster for the impending match against the Cowboys.
Before settling on Seibert, the Jets held trials for four potential kickers at Florham Park. Seibert emerged as the favored choice, bringing with him a significant amount of experience from previous stints with the Browns, Cincinnati Bengals, and Detroit Lions. Over his career, the 26-year-old kicker has participated in 30 NFL games, converting 44 out of 55 field goal attempts. His longest successful field goal stands at an impressive 53 yards.
To contextualize Seibert’s importance, it’s worth noting that Zuerlein was in top form before his injury. Last year, he successfully converted 30 out of 37 attempts. Even in the recent Week 1 clash against the Buffalo Bills, which ended in an overtime victory for the Jets, Zuerlein was flawless, making all three of his attempts.
Quarterback Situation: Aaron Rodgers to Injured Reserve
The Jets were dealt another blow when Aaron Rodgers, their star quarterback, suffered an Achilles rupture during the Monday Night Football season opener. This unfortunate incident has landed Rodgers on the Injured Reserve list.
Following this setback, the Jets found themselves in a precarious position with Zach Wilson being the sole quarterback on their 53-man roster.
Tim Boyle Joins the Active Roster
In response to their quarterback conundrum, the Jets have promoted Tim Boyle to the active roster. Boyle, a familiar face within the team, signed a free-agent deal in the offseason and was part of the Jets throughout the training camp. However, he was among the last cuts made on August 29, leading him to join the Practice Squad. The Connecticut native is no stranger to the NFL, having appeared in 17 games and boasting three starts under his belt.
Conclusion
As the New York Jets gear up to face the Dallas Cowboys in Week 2 of the 2023 NFL season, they find themselves adapting to unforeseen challenges. With Zuerlein out and Seibert in for the kicker’s role and the unexpected reshuffling of the quarterback position due to Rodgers’ injury, it’s a testament to the team’s resilience and adaptability. As Sunday Night Football dawns, all eyes will be on these new additions and how they fare under the spotlight.
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