The New York Jets drafted Aaron Rodgers in April this year, fixing their quarterback problem. Rodgers is the key to the Jets’ whole map of this season. They have made significant changes to the team, including building the team around Rodgers for the upcoming season. Rodgers is set to play five prime-time games this season for his team in 2023. So it all seems good from the outside but the head coach of the team is getting heat from former quarterback and a mentor to Patrick Mahomes.

Robert Saleh, defensive coach of the Jets has an excellent roster for this season. His lack of notice to the second overall pick was criticized by the former NFL quarterback. Zach Wilson, the QB of the Jets, was defended by the former QB.

Concerns around Aaron Rodgers’ defensive head coach

Zach Wilson is the No. 2 quarterback of the Jets. He definitely has the potential to bring his talent to the field and learn from the best. But he is not getting enough chances to prove himself or learn to grow. Alex Smith, the former quarterback of the Washington Redskins, came to Wilson’s defense. He had some jabs to throw at the current head coach of the team, and he didn’t hold back.

Smith said, “There is a different mentality, from my career, when you play for an offensive head coach that wants to light up the scoreboard and outscore the opponent.” in an interview on SiriusXM NFL Radio. He further added, “There’s a different mentality you have, especially as a young quarterback versus a defensive head coach, when really the mentality is, ‘Hey, don’t screw up, don’t turn the ball over, don’t put us in a bad situation.” Smith is looking out for the rookie as he was in those shoes not so long ago.

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Alex Smith’s constructive criticism

Alex Smith has some experience in turning a rookie into a pro footballer. Patrick Mahomes is one of the examples. Smith took the rookie under his wing and taught him everything he needed to know. Smith never had that fortune himself. He faced several issues in his career that were very unfortunate and held him back from his truest potential.

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Smith straight up said, “Robert Saleh, you’re a great defensive mind and coordinator, but, like, you have no idea how to develop a quarterback.” He spoke from his heart as he sees potential in the No. 2. he strongly feels defensive coaches lack the ability to influence younger quarterbacks, hence they can not improve under their shadow. Wilson has a long career ahead of him if he follows the path under his veteran teammate. Smith took his time to master the art of football, and so can Wilson.