Jets Continue to Add Former Packers to Their Roster, Sparking Fan Reactions

In a move that has fans buzzing, the New York Jets have signed yet another former Green Bay Packer, kicker Anders Carlson, to their practice squad. This decision follows a trend that began with the Jets’ acquisition of quarterback Aaron Rodgers, which has brought a wave of ex-Packers into the New York organization, fueling both excitement and amusement among fans.

Familiar Faces in New York

The Jets’ “Green Bay North” transformation started with hiring offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett and signing wide receiver Allen Lazard. Once Rodgers officially joined the team, more familiar faces followed. Randall Cobb, a longtime favorite target of Rodgers, and offensive lineman Billy Turner soon signed with the Jets, along with safety Adrian Amos and quarterback Tim Boyle. Most notably, the Jets recently pulled off a high-profile trade for All-Pro receiver Davante Adams, reuniting him with Rodgers in a move that excited fans.

In Carlson, the Jets have now added another former Packer to their growing list of ex-Green Bay players. Although Carlson didn’t play with Rodgers directly, his arrival has added to the perception that the Jets are building a “Packers 2.0.” The Jets released kicker Riley Patterson, who made all three field goals in their recent win over the Texans, to bring Carlson into the mix.

Finding Stability at Kicker

Carlson, a rookie drafted by the Packers to replace their veteran kicker Mason Crosby, initially struggled in Green Bay and lost his roster spot before the 2024 season. After a brief stint with the San Francisco 49ers, where he impressed by making all five of his field goals, Carlson now has a fresh opportunity with the Jets, who have been searching for consistency in their kicking game.

With veteran kicker Greg Zuerlein recently placed on injured reserve, Carlson could bring stability to the position, though New York plans to start Spencer Shrader for now. As the third kicker in three weeks, the Jets hope Carlson can provide a reliable option if the inconsistency continues.

Fans React to the Growing Packers Pipeline

Jets fans, as well as NFL followers, have taken to social media to react to Carlson’s signing. Comments range from humor to bewilderment, with fans expressing a mix of amusement and confusion over the Jets’ repeated signings of former Packers. As one fan wrote, “This is getting a bit ridiculous,” while another joked that the Jets might as well change their name to the “New York Packers.”

Despite Carlson’s minimal connection to Rodgers and the other former Packers, his signing contributes to the growing narrative of the Jets adopting a Green Bay influence in their approach. For some fans, the repeated additions from the Packers’ ranks have added an unexpected layer of intrigue to the season, while others wonder if this approach will yield the success the Jets are hoping for.

Moving Forward with Familiarity and Experience

With their current roster of former Packers, the Jets have aimed to bring in players who understand the system and have a shared history with Rodgers. For the fans, the addition of Carlson may be just another chapter in an increasingly Packers-influenced team structure. As the Jets continue their season, it remains to be seen whether this strategy will translate into long-term success—or if it will simply continue to fuel fan speculation and amusement.