The New York Jets’ passing attack was surprisingly potent in Week 1, but are more weapons still required?
Quarterback Justin Fields threw for 218 yards against the Pittsburgh Steelers on 22 passing attempts, and star wideout Garrett Wilson had himself a big day with 95 yards and a touchdown. It’s still unclear, however, who the No. 2 option behind Wilson is in the passing game.
Maybe that second target isn’t yet on the roster, as one NFL writer suggested on Wednesday.
Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox speculated that Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts could be due for a trade at some point this season, and named the Jets as a top potential suitor should Atlanta choose to put him up for bidding.
Knox said Pitts “flashed elite upside” as a rookie in 2021, but could be available thanks to his disappointing track record and impending free agency after the season.
“The 24-year-old (Pitts) seems to have developed a strong chemistry with second-year quarterback Michael Penix Jr., and the two hooked up seven times for 59 yards on eight targets in Week 1,” Knox wrote.
“Atlanta won’t be eager to move one of Penix’s favorite pass-catchers while it still has playoff hopes — at least, not for what might be considered a bargain price. Potential Suitors: New York Jets, Washington Commanders.”
Pitts has averaged fewer than 40 receiving yards per game in each of the last three seasons, so if Sunday’s performance is an indication that he’s finally living up to his first-round talent, he’ll be a coveted trade target for any team.
Of course, that likely necessitates A) the Falcons falling on their faces and B) the Jets proving they’re at least in the mix for the playoffs by late October. While both of those things absolutely could happen, it would be bold to call them likely at this stage.
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