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Tyrod Taylor finally took the field as the starting quarterback for the New York Jets in their preseason opener against the Washington Commanders.
While the Jets managed to snag a 20-17 win, Taylor’s performance was, well, let’s say it was a bit quiet.
This was Taylor’s 23rd preseason start in his 14-year NFL journey, and he’s already played for six other teams. So, experience isn’t the issue. But after just two drives, he was replaced by the rookie Andrew Peasley.
It’s worth noting that most of the Jets’ big names, including the highly anticipated Aaron Rodgers, were on the sidelines for this one, which gave the backup guys a chance to shine.
Even with all his experience, Taylor only got to lead two drives, and both ended pretty quickly with those dreaded three-and-outs.
His one completed pass was a short toss to rookie wide receiver Malachi Corley, which unfortunately went backward for a one-yard loss.
To make matters worse, the Jets’ offense was plagued by penalties early on––a false start by rookie tackle Olu Fashanu and an ineligible receiver-downfield penalty on guard Xavier Newman.
All that made it challenging for Taylor to find his groove and show what he can do.
Although, Jets’ head coach Robert Saleh wasn’t too worried, saying, “I thought he did a good job. There were some penalties that kind of derailed us, didn’t really give us a chance to get off the ground. Overall, it was kind of a wash.”
Despite the somewhat underwhelming performance, Taylor’s impressive track record in the NFL suggests he has much more to offer.
Over his career with teams like the Ravens, Bills, Browns, Chargers, Texans, and Giants, Taylor has started 58 games, throwing for 65 touchdown passes and 29 interceptions.
Taylor’s also known for his mobility, averaging 5.6 yards per carry and scoring 19 rushing touchdowns. If the Jets need him to step up during the regular season, those skills could be helpful.
The Jets were clearly playing it safe in this preseason game, resting most of their starters to avoid unnecessary injuries, which the Jets have struggled with in the past.
With Rodgers watching from the sidelines, it was a chance for guys like Taylor to make their case.
Speaking of which, Taylor’s expected to get more playing time in the next preseason game against the Carolina Panthers. That’ll give him another shot to show what he’s got and solidify his spot as the backup NY Jets quarterback.
And who knows, depending on how Rodgers’ recovery is going, we might even see him in that final preseason game against the Giants.
So, even though Taylor’s first game with the Jets wasn’t exactly a highlight reel, don’t count him out yet. He brings a ton of experience and a unique skill set. As the preseason rolls on, we’ll get a better look at what he can really do.
Thus, while Tyrod Taylor’s first game with the Jets may not have been flashy, he’s a valuable asset to the team, and as the preseason progresses, we’ll likely see him take on a bigger role and show everyone what he’s truly capable of.