Jets 2024 training camp heats up as rookie Braelon Allen shines, while vet Michael Carter's fumbles put his roster spot at risk. Justin Fields returns.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The post-Aaron Rodgers era is officially in full swing at Florham Park, and under new head coach Aaron Glenn, the message is clear: nothing will be given, everything must be earned. As the Jets kicked off another day of training camp, the competitive fire Glenn promised is already forging heroes and revealing vulnerabilities, with a rookie running back turning heads and established veterans fighting for their roster lives.
'He missed one day. He's been in meetings so he'll be just fine.' - Head Coach Aaron Glenn on Justin Fields' brief absence.
The biggest buzz out of camp is centered on rookie running back Braelon Allen. The powerful runner has been a standout, consistently impressing coaches and media with his decisive running and physicality, potentially leapfrogging others on the depth chart. His rise comes at the direct expense of Michael Carter, who is having a nightmare start. Carter's struggles with ball security—a recurring issue from last season—have resurfaced, putting his roster spot in serious jeopardy as he enters the final year of his rookie contract.
Quarterback Justin Fields made his return to the practice field after a one-day absence, and Coach Glenn quickly squashed any concerns about the missed time. While Fields' presence provides stability, questions are emerging about the offensive weapons around him. Rookie receiver Malachi Corley, nicknamed the 'YAC King' in college, has seen his stock dip due to puzzling usage. He's been featured more on gadget plays like end-arounds than as a primary target in the passing game, raising early questions about his role in the new offense. The pressure is on for the entire rookie class, including 7th overall pick Armand, to contribute immediately.
This isn't Robert Saleh and Joe Douglas's team anymore. The new tandem of Head Coach Aaron Glenn and GM Darren Mougey has ushered in a palpable shift in culture. The focus is squarely on fostering a hyper-competitive environment where every rep matters and every job is on the line. Glenn's daily emphasis on accountability is a stark departure from the past and is the foundation of the front office's plan to finally—*finally*—snap the NFL's longest active playoff drought.
While it's only July, the battle lines are being drawn. The impressive flashes from Braelon Allen and the concerning trends for Michael Carter and Malachi Corley are more than just camp fodder; they are the first indicators of who will thrive in Aaron Glenn's new system. All eyes now turn to the preseason opener against the Green Bay Packers on August 9th, which will be the first true test for a team and a fan base desperate for a new beginning.
