The New York Jets still have objectives to achieve as they conclude the 2023 NFL season.
Sure, Gang Green has secured its fourth successive campaign with at least ten losses and 13th consecutive season without a playoff spot, but their focus this week is on breaking their 15-game losing streak against AFC East rival, New England.
“The motivation and the vibes around the locker room is going 1-0 this week,” linebacker Quincy Williams said Monday, via The Associated Press. “This week, it’s special because it’s a big game, because we play the Patriots. I think the goal is breaking the losing streak, honestly. So with it being the last game, most people (usually) already have their minds set on like their vacation and stuff. It’s not that way in the locker room. So I’m actually excited about that.”
The last time the Jets beat New England was Week 16, 2015, during Ryan Fitzpatrick’s magical run in New York. Zero Gang Green players from that day remain on the roster — the Patriots employ three players: center David Andrews, special teams star Matthew Slater and long snapper Joe Cardona.
Williams said about the losing streak, “While it’s not openly discussed, I can confirm that there may be private conversations about it. It certainly weighs on everyone’s minds due to the team rivalry.”
In Week 3 of this season, the Jets suffered a 15-10 defeat to the Patriots at home.
With the future of Patriots head coach Bill Belichick in question heading into the finale, the Jets knocking off the legendary coach to end his tenure in Foxborough could also be an interesting subplot. Jets owner Woody Johnson previously said on the record that he intends to bring back head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas to continue the rebuild.
“This entire season has been a roller coaster for us,” said Williams. “However, we still notice silver linings in our practices and weekly routines. We’re also optimistic about the next season. Knowing that we have fewer things to improve on in the offseason gives us confidence that we can become a Super Bowl or playoff caliber team.”
I would describe this year as a year of progress. We’re moving in the right direction. If anyone were to ask me, or any fans wondering about the season, I would say, don’t worry. We’re almost there.
