Jets WR Allen Lazard looking to bounce back after ‘really tough’ 2023 season: ‘A lot of adversity’

Cutting Lazard this offseason would have left $18.735 million in dead money with zero cap savings, so Gang Green let it ride, bringing him back with the hope that he can recapture some magic with Rodgers returning.

With Mike Williams starting camp on the physically unable to perform list, Lazard has had a chance to prove he still deserves snaps. There are reps to be had behind Garrett Wilson, with Xavier Gipson, who is dealing with a leg injury, and rookie Malachi Corley also battling for snaps.

“I want to reestablish the value I bring to this team, not only on the field but in the locker room and the community,” he said. “I just want to be able to put my best foot forward going into the season.”

So far, Lazard’s offseason has been a positive step in that direction.

“I thought he handled last year like a pro,” head coach Robert Saleh said. “He could’ve gone off the rails like a lot of guys would and started pointing fingers. I think he’s done a great job attacking this offseason. I think he’s done a great job getting his feet settled where he is. … He’s doing a phenomenal job in the receiver room, just talking with his guys and doing a great job in practice. His head is in the right spot.”