The New York Jets have found immense success converting on third down to start the 2024 season. Through three weeks, they lead the NFL with a 56.8% conversion rate on third down.
When asked about the team’s effectiveness on Monday, Jets center Joe Tippmann responded straightforwardly.
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“Aaron Rodgers,” Tippmann answered.
“He’s a guy out there that’s communicating, getting us to the right call and the right play,” Tippmann said about Rodgers. “He’s breaking down the defense before they’re even showing what they have. For him to be able to do that and get us on the same page, he just takes time to work and make something happen, and that’s what he is phenomenal at doing.”
Rodgers’ presence significantly enhances the Jets’ offensive performance. Last season, the team ranked 32nd in third down conversion rate (26%) and 32nd in red zone touchdown rate (32.4%). In addition to their No. 1 ranking on third down, this year’s Jets team is also third-best in red zone efficiency (75%).
In the Jets’ first three games, Rodgers has displayed flashes of his vintage form, completing 58 of 86 passes (67.4%) for 624 yards, with five touchdowns and one interception.
Tippmann also praised rookie running back Braelon Allen, with whom he played for two seasons at the University of Wisconsin before reuniting this season.
“He [Allen] brings the physicality, and it’s not to say that Breece won’t run over a dude,” Tippmann said. “Breece is out there making those cuts, making people miss, and then Braelon comes in, and he runs right over them. So I think it opens it up for him and then opens it up for Breece to be able to make those plays further downfield. Because, you know, those safeties that are stepping up, they’re going to be more scared to hit.”
Tippmann has also been a major part of the Jets’ offensive turnaround. Through three weeks, he is Pro Football Focus’ fourth-highest graded center with an 82.9 overall grade.
With Rodgers leading the charge behind an elite center, the Jets are poised to continue succeeding on third down. They will be tested in Week 4 against a Broncos defense that ranks eighth-best in third down efficiency (30.6% conversion rate allowed).
