The New York Jets are analyzing areas for improvement following their second loss of the season, a game they felt was within reach against the Green Bay Packers. Defensive players and offensive linemen pointed to several key factors contributing to the defeat, including an inability to convert forced fumbles into turnovers, a struggling run game, and a lapse in performance during the critical latter stages of the game.
Defensive lineman Harrison Phillips acknowledged the frustration of forcing five fumbles but only recovering one. "I think what we want to do is put the nail in the coffin," Phillips said, referencing the defense's goal of capitalizing on opportunities. He added that the team needs to maintain intensity throughout practices, particularly towards the end, to better prepare for finishing games strongly.
"We preach takeaways," said safety Dane Belton. "When you get the ball out five times, that's great. You want more than one [recovery]." Despite the missed opportunities on turnovers, defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn expressed confidence that the team's aggressive approach to stripping the ball will eventually yield better results. "I do know this: Those things are gonna come around. We want guys to continue to do that because you want that to be a part of your DNA when it comes to defensive football," Glenn stated.
Left tackle Olu Fashanu described the game as "very winnable," echoing the sentiment that the team had chances to secure a victory. The offense also faced scrutiny, with a lackluster running game and a failure to involve star wide receiver Garrett Wilson sufficiently in the fourth quarter and overtime.
Wilson was targeted seven times, finishing with five receptions for 57 yards and a touchdown. Glenn acknowledged the need to involve Wilson more, stating, "That is a point of emphasis every time we go out, to make sure we get him the ball. And we have to continue to do that." Wilson has not recorded a 100-yard receiving game since December 2024.
Despite the offensive struggles, the secondary performed adequately in the absence of Minkah Fitzpatrick. Belton and Andre Cisco saw increased action at safety, making four solo tackles each. Belton noted that they received valuable input from Fitzpatrick during preparation, which helped them manage Green Bay's passing attack. "I felt we did a good job. We didn’t get the job done [as a team], but losing a playmaker like that, we did do a good job," Belton commented.
The Packers ultimately scored the final 13 points of the game, including the winning points in overtime, to secure the victory. The Jets aim to address these issues in practice as they prepare for future opponents.
