Jets coach has "special" solution after worrying problem emerges for Rodgers

11 August 2023 , 14:10

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New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh has spoke about the team's offensive line concerns (Image: Nick Cammett/Diamond Images via Getty Images)

New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh has addressed concerns centering around the team’s offensive line - and touted "special" Alijah Vera-Tucker as a potential solution to their problems.

The Jets are preparing for the first season with Aaron Rodgers as the franchise’s star quarterback. Rodgers will be competing with Zach Wilson for the starting spot at the MetLife Stadium, after moving to New York following a trade with the Green Bay Packers.

Rodgers and Co have been working hard during pre-season training camp to get ready for the 2023 NFL regular season. Part of that preparation has involved friendly games, while there have also been a lot of practice sessions.

During a recent practice, Rodgers was sacked twice due to a lack of protection from the offensive line. Despite this, the veteran QB still managed to throw 11-14 and put in a decent showing with his new team.

Since then, though, there have been concerns over the Jets’ offensive line and what effect it could have on Rodgers. One such player who has been suggested as a key component is guard Alijah Vera-Tucker, who is getting ready for his third season in the NFL.

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Vera-Tucker was drafted with the No.14 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft by the Jets. Saleh believes that the 24-year-old can have a big impact on the team’s offensive line going forward.

"AVT (Vera-Tucker) is a very special football player," Saleh told . "You know how we feel about AVT and what he did a year ago is unprecedented in football.

“We've got full confidence. We want to keep him at guard because we think he's an All-Pro guard and he would still be an unbelievable tackle and would probably be an All-Pro tackle.

“But we know he will be his absolute best on the inside, but his versatility is very, very beneficial."

Despite high hopes for Vera-Tucker, Saleh also expressed concerns about the offensive line for the Jets. The team currently has a number of tackles on the sidelines including Duane Brown and Mekhi Becton.

Vera-Tucker usually plays as a guard but has been asked to perform at tackle during pre-season. Saleh was asked if Vera-Tucker could be forced to play as a tackle again.

"We're going to play our best five and if that's how one of them shakes out, it's something we're going to have to talk about,” Saleh said.

"My optimistic side says we'll get it done," he added. "As a coach you want it done yesterday. We want these guys rolling, we want confidence, we want to start humming."

Mark Wakefield