Jets Release Allen Lazard: What’s Next for the Veteran Receiver After Rodgers Era Ends?

Allen Lazard’s Release Signals End of Rodgers Era in New York

In the chilly days of December 2025, the New York Jets closed a chapter that had lingered longer than most anticipated. On Tuesday, the franchise released wide receiver Allen Lazard, a move that not only severs their last on-field tie to the Aaron Rodgers era, but also signals a shift in priorities toward youth and rebuilding (ESPN).

Lazard, who turned 30 last week, was a healthy scratch for four games this season. His role dwindled as the Jets leaned into developing younger talent and weathered a season marred by injuries. For Lazard, the writing had been on the wall since last offseason, especially after Rodgers—his longtime quarterback and friend—departed in March. Despite taking a significant pay cut and agreeing to void the final year of his contract, Lazard couldn’t carve out a consistent place in the offense. Ultimately, both sides agreed to part ways, with Lazard hoping to join a contender for a playoff push.

From Green Bay Glory to New York Struggles

Allen Lazard’s journey to New York was fueled by his chemistry with Aaron Rodgers, developed over five seasons with the Green Bay Packers. The Jets, eager to entice Rodgers in 2023, signed Lazard to a four-year, $44 million deal. It was a calculated gamble—one that paid off in the short term, but lost its luster as injuries and inconsistency crept in.

Lazard’s Jets tenure was marked by flashes of promise but ultimately fell short of expectations. In three seasons, he caught 70 passes for 911 yards and eight touchdowns. His best stretch came in 2024, when Rodgers returned from injury: Lazard hauled in 530 yards and six touchdowns, providing a reliable target and strong blocking presence (The Athletic). But the magic didn’t last. This season, his snaps dwindled to just 250, and he managed only 10 catches for 70 yards and a single touchdown.

Among receivers with at least 100 targets since 2023, Lazard’s drop rate stands out—10.2 percent, second-highest in the league according to TruMedia. For a player brought in to stabilize a turbulent offense, this stat was hard to ignore.

Jets Pivot to Youth as Injuries Mount

The Jets’ decision to release Lazard wasn’t made in a vacuum. The team sits at 3-11 and has shifted focus to evaluating young receivers like Adonai Mitchell, John Metchie III, and Isaiah Williams. Top target Garrett Wilson has missed five straight games with a knee injury, and head coach Aaron Glenn admits that Wilson’s return this season is “unlikely.” In this climate, Lazard’s veteran presence became expendable, replaced by the promise of fresh legs and new energy (ESPN).

It’s a familiar NFL story: a franchise, battered by injuries and disappointing results, opts to clear cap space and provide opportunities for emerging talent. In this case, the Jets also made moves at quarterback, releasing Adrian Martinez from the practice squad as injured veterans Justin Fields and Tyrod Taylor near returns. Glenn, reflecting on rookie Brady Cook’s first NFL start, underscored the team’s commitment to evaluating its future rather than clinging to its past.

Where Could Lazard Land Next?

With his release, Allen Lazard immediately becomes an intriguing option for teams seeking depth at wide receiver for a playoff run (USA Today). Although his production dipped this season, his size, blocking ability, and experience in big games make him a tempting target for contenders. Several franchises stand out as potential landing spots:

• Pittsburgh Steelers: While a reunion with Rodgers is no longer possible, Pittsburgh could benefit from Lazard’s veteran savvy and versatility. The fit almost seems too obvious, especially as the Steelers look for depth and reliability.
• Buffalo Bills: As legitimate Super Bowl contenders, the Bills could add Lazard as a depth piece for their postseason push, either on the active roster or practice squad.
• Chicago Bears: With their receiving corps depleted by injuries, the Bears may see Lazard as a safe, experienced option to bolster their NFC North chase.
• Los Angeles Rams: Davante Adams’ injury leaves the Rams in need of reinforcement. Lazard’s skill set could mesh well with Sean McVay’s offense, providing a boost for their Super Bowl ambitions.
• San Francisco 49ers: The Niners’ playoff hopes have been hindered by injuries, and Lazard’s veteran presence could offer insurance and flexibility as the team navigates a tough campaign.

Whether Lazard is claimed on waivers or enters free agency, his next destination will likely hinge on his ability to convince teams that his 2024 form can be recaptured, and that his drop rate won’t overshadow the value he brings as a blocker and red zone threat.

Lazard’s Legacy: More Than Just Numbers

Allen Lazard’s time in New York will be remembered as much for what didn’t happen as for what did. He arrived with high hopes, a big contract, and a reputation forged in Green Bay alongside one of the NFL’s most iconic quarterbacks. But the transition proved challenging. Injuries, changing personnel, and the weight of expectations conspired against a seamless fit.

Yet, Lazard’s professionalism and willingness to adapt—accepting a pay cut, reshaping his role, and mentoring younger players—reflect the character that often goes unseen beneath the surface stats. His ability to block, contribute in the red zone, and provide depth will serve him well as he seeks his next opportunity.

As the Jets move forward, the Rodgers era feels truly finished, with only memories and a few cap hits remaining. Lazard, meanwhile, faces an uncertain but promising future, with several playoff-bound teams potentially interested in his services.

Allen Lazard’s release from the Jets is a microcosm of the NFL’s relentless churn: even reliable veterans can find themselves on the outside as teams retool and chase new dreams. For Lazard, the coming weeks will test whether his experience and versatility can translate to one more shot at postseason glory.