Aaron Rodgers & New York Jets feature in HBO’s “Hard Knocks”. What do we know?
Since his blockbuster move from Wisconsin to New York, both Aaron Rodgers and the Jets have occupied countless headlines. Now, that’s about to increase.
Despite their apparent reluctance to do so, it now seems that the New York Jets and their new quarterback will be appearing in HBO’s hugely popular preseason reality show, which focuses on the inner workings of teams in the NFL.
New York Jets to appear in HBO’s “Hard Knocks”
According to reports, the New York Jets are in line to be the next team featured in HBO’s “Hard Knocks.” The show which has become an annual spectacle for NFL fans, featured the Detroit Lions in its 2022. What’s interesting to note, is that Jets head coach, Robert Saleh, had previously indicated that his team was not open to the idea of allowing HBO and NFL Films to document the franchise’s preparation for the 2023 season, however, as things stand that will now in fact be the case.
As one of four teams eligible according to the league’s criteria the Jets were selected ahead of the Chicago Bears, New Orleans Saints, and Washington Commanders. Why were the Jets finally chosen? As per league criteria, the show can’t feature teams with first-year coaches or those that recently contended for the postseason. Where the Commanders specifically were concerned, reports suggest that though open to the idea, the team preferred to wait until after the finalization of its sale to Josh Harris. Interestingly, the Lions were approached for an encore appearance but declined to do so.
The Aaron Rodgers effect
While the Jets may be bothered about being ‘forced’ to participate in the show, the reality is that the team boasts one of the most intriguing storylines ahead of the 2023 season. Consider for a moment that the Jets haven’t been to the playoffs in 12 seasons, yet they recently declared themselves as title contenders. Why? That Aaron Rodgers deal we mentioned above, that’s why. Indeed, the Jets have six prime-time games during the upcoming season and with Rodgers at the helm, it doesn’t get any more exciting. If even they achieve half of what they hope to, it’ll make for great TV.
After all, it’s not like they haven’t been featured on “Hard Knocks” before, having won a Sports Emmy back in 2010 with stars such as head coach Rex Ryan, quarterback Mark Sanchez, and cornerback Darrelle Revis. This will be the 22nd edition of “Hard Knocks.”