Summary
- Jets crisis: Rodgers experiment failed, leadership dismissed.
- Cowboys rely on Rush instead of Lance.
- NFL kickers show unexpected weaknesses in Week 11.
- Tanking suspicion: Nine teams in the race for top picks.
The NFL is in a state of unrest in the middle of the season. Several teams are struggling with unexpected challenges, while others may be looking ahead to next season. A look at the league’s most burning questions heading into Week 12.
Jets in turbulence: Rodgers experiment about to end?
The New York Jets are having a season to forget. After the injury to star quarterback Aaron Rodgers last season and the below-average performance this year, there has now been a real clear-cut in the management team. Head coach, general manager and offensive coordinator have already had to leave. With a 3-8 record, the question arises about Rodgers’ future. Team owner Woody Johnson seems determined to put an end to the costly experiment. But the NFL’s complex salary cap rules make it difficult to say goodbye quickly. A new GM faces the challenge of either absorbing a massive financial hit in 2025 or spreading the load over several years.
Cowboys in quarterback quandary.
The Dallas Cowboys also face a dilemma. With Dak Prescott injured, the starting quarterback is missing for the rest of the season. Surprisingly, owner Jerry Jones continues to rely on backup Cooper Rush instead of giving the highly traded newcomer Trey Lance a chance. Lance, for whom the Cowboys sacrificed a fourth-round pick, remains on the bench despite the 3-7 record. A decision that raises questions, especially given the high expectations that were once placed on Lance. The 49ers paid a high price for his draft choice in 2021, but gave him away after just eight appearances.
Kicker crisis: precision shooters suddenly fickle.
The NFL’s otherwise reliable kickers are showing unusual weaknesses. Even top stars like Justin Tucker, Jake Elliott and Younghoe Koo missed important kicks in Week 11. This season, all of them have a hit rate of less than 74% – an alarming value for the otherwise so precise specialists. The reasons for this collective collapse remain mysterious, but could play a crucial role in the upcoming playoffs.
Tanking suspicion in Week 12: Race for top draft picks?
While the NFL has largely been spared from the “tanking” phenomenon, the 2024 season could be an exception. Nine teams with just two or three wins after Week 11 are impressive. The difference between the first and ninth draft picks is enormous, as shown by the Carolina Panthers’ expensive trade for quarterback Bryce Young last year.
The question is: Will we see intentional defeats in the final weeks of the season? And would these even be recognizable given the previous performances of some teams?
The NFL is facing turbulent weeks in which not only sporting decisions but also strategic considerations for the future will play a role.
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