22 June 2023 , 16:10
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In a division dominated by the New England Patriots for two decades with the three other teams being routinely mediocre, much has now changed in the AFC East.
The Patriots have struggled since Tom Brady 's departure, with the Buffalo Bills winning the division since 2020 with Josh Allen making the leap in becoming a superstar-level quarterback.
And while the Miami Dolphins will be contending alongside the Bills after adding Tyreek Hill and Jalen Ramsey in the past 12 months, the New York Jets look primed to compete after adding Aaron Rodgers to one of the best rosters in football.
While it'd make his road to the playoffs much easier not seeing Rodgers in his division, Allen has admitted his admiration for the legendary former Green Bay Packer.
Speaking on The Ringer's 'Slow News Day with Kevin Clark', Allen stated that he looks forward to going up against Rodgers this season - naming him the best passer to ever play the game. But he admits it will be a "battle" going up against his former idol.
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Allen said: "I’ve been such a fan of him since I was a little kid. Having Aaron Rodgers jerseys and trying to emulate what he does on the football field.
"He’s such a special player. I think he’s the most gifted thrower of the football of all time. To now be going up against him twice a year, it’s going to be a battle."
The Bills remain the strong favourites to win the division, as they'll bring back all of their best players - including some interesting additions in Leonard Floyd, Deonte Harty, Connor McGovern, and drafting Dalton Kincaid.
The Jets and Bills will be among the favourites for the Super BowlBut the Jets adding Rodgers will see them hugely elevate the whole team after they had been badly let down-by poor quarterback play with Zach Wilson and Mike White struggling.
One of the best defensive rosters in the league, the Jets had rookie of the year Sauce Gardner play at an elite level from day one, while also having a dominant defensive line with Quinnen Williams in the interior.
The Jets gave up two first round picks to acquire Rodgers, and will hope he returns to his 2021 form - when he won his a second MVP award in as many years. While Rodgers did not play at his best in 2022, he still performed at a much higher level than either Jets quarterback - throwing for 26 touchdowns to 12 interceptions.