The prediction suggests it will be a disappointing return for New York Jets' quarterback Aaron Rodgers on Monday night against the San Francisco 49ers.
The 40-year-old Rodgers will see his first game action since tearing his Achilles in the 2023 season opener, and he'll do it against the reigning NFC champions in his native California. Although the future Hall-of-Fame quarterback is savvy and can still sling it, there are a few external factors working against him as the Jets kick off the 2024 campaign.
The main problem is the Jets' Week 1 opponent. The 49ers have arguably the NFL's deepest roster and feature a fierce defense that has shown ability to make life miserable for opposing passers. Last year, San Francisco limited opponents to 20 touchdown passes and 22 interceptions over 17 games while averaging nearly 3.0 sacks per outing.
The strength of the opponent is one key reason why The Sporting News senior writer Vinnie Iyer has picked the Jets to drop their Week 1 road game.
From NFL picks, predictions against the spread Week 1:
- Jets at 49ers (-4, 44 o/u)
Monday 8:15 p.m. ET, ESPN/ABC
Aaron Rodgers has had a rough offseason in trying to reestablish himself as a revered, feared QB at 40 coming off a torn Achilles. He's still working out kinks with his receivers, so the Jets will lean plenty on Breece Hall and the running game to support the defense. Kyle Shanahan will prepare Brock Purdy well for Robert Saleh's group at home, and there's a lot more stability and firepower on the 49ers' offense. Expect more of the playoff version of Rodgers vs. San Francisco than the regular-season one. Pick: 49ers win 24-17 and cover the spread. Vinnie Iyer
There also something to be said about the fact that only Allen Lazard has caught a pass from Rodgers in a real game before. Although Rodgers has had a good rapport with WR1 Garrett Wilson, there's no substitute for life action. Meanwhile, WR2 Mike Williams started training camp on PUP and didn't get much time to work with his quarterback. It all adds up to a potentially slow start for the passing game on Monday night.
"It's Week 1. It's always going to be a crap shoot," said Jets' fourth-year head coach Robert Saleh on Saturday. "There's going to be a lot of un-scouted looks. I'm very curious to see the tackling, the efficiency, the precision, it can go either way."
More New York Jets News:
• Jets' Week 1 opponent trending toward fantasy bust status
• Aaron Rodgers must face last player who sacked him in MNF opener
• Jets' offensive coordinator explains what makes Breece Hall rare breed
• Rodgers hopeful New York Jets made correct offseason moves on offense
• Saleh takes measures to offset Jets' schedule disadvantage
