The New York Jets' defense will have plenty to worry about when the Green & White open the season on the road against the San Francisco 49ers on September 9.
After all, the 49ers led all NFL offenses in yards per play (6.61) last year and their starting quarterback and superstar running back have returned.
Although still stacked, the 49ers' offense could be without their franchise left tackle and lead wide receiver in the Monday Night Football season opener. Veteran bookend Trent Williams is in a holdout over his contract while pass-catcher Brandon Aiyuk has requested a trade due to his apparent dissatisfaction with the front office.
"Zero updates. Nothing changed," said San Francisco head coach Kyle Shanahan leading up to last week's preseason finale.
The 36-year-old Williams, who is coming off three straight All-Pro First Team selections, reportedly wants guaranteed money added to the three years remaining on his contract. He never reported to training camp, and on Monday, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler cited sources saying the left tackle "plans to continue his holdout unless his contract is reworked."
As for Aiyuk, who led the 49ers with 1,342 receiving yards in 2023, the team has reportedly been in negotiations with the Pittsburgh Steelers on a potential deal. Aiyuk, however, also wants a new contract and his bargaining power may have gotten a boost from the $34 million average annual value that Cee Dee Lamb just earned from the Dallas Cowboys.
There are still two full weeks for San Francisco to solve its two major offensive problems, but the situation is leaning in the favor of the upset-minded Jets.
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• Rodgers applauds $44 million WR's return to Green Bay roots
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