The AFC East division for the 2024 season has two playoff-hopeful teams, the Miami Dolphins and the New York Jets. The New England Patriots and New York Jets also inhabit the division, with the Patriots in rebuild mode. The Jets are looking to rebound next season, with their success hinging on quarterback Aaron Rodgers being healthy. Despite a 7-10 season in 2023, the Jets have been active in signing free agents to improve their team on both offense and defense, with notable additions such as offensive tackle Tyron Smith and wide receiver Mike Williams. The addition of pass rusher Haason Reddick from the Philadelphia Eagles further strengthens the Jets’ defense.
The Jets acquired Haason Reddick in a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles for a conditional 2026 third-round pick, which could escalate to a second-round pick based on Reddick’s performance. Reddick, known for his impressive sack numbers in recent seasons, adds to the Jets’ already formidable defense, joining star cornerback Sauce Gardner. The Dolphins, another team in the AFC East, made a significant signing by extending Pro Bowl running back Raheem Mostert to a new two-year deal worth up to $9.075 million. Mostert was a key player for the Dolphins in 2023, leading the league in total touchdowns with 21 (18 rushing, 3 receiving) and setting career highs in rushing yards and touchdowns.
The AFC East has been predominantly contested between the Bills and Dolphins in recent years, but the Jets’ improvements could potentially lead to a three-way race for the divisional title in the upcoming season. The success of the Jets, Dolphins, and Bills will heavily rely on the health and performance of key players like Aaron Rodgers, Raheem Mostert, and other star players on their respective teams. With the Jets making significant additions to their roster, the upcoming season in the AFC East promises to be highly competitive and exciting for fans of all teams in the division.
The Jets’ signing of Haason Reddick, known for his exceptional pass-rushing abilities, adds a new dimension to their defense and makes them a more formidable force in the AFC East. Reddick’s track record of double-digit sack seasons provides a boost to the Jets’ pass rush, complementing the talents of existing defensive stars like Sauce Gardner. The Dolphins’ extension of Raheem Mostert ensures that their potent rushing attack remains intact for the coming seasons, with Mostert coming off a standout year in 2023. The combination of Mostert and a healthy Devon Achane could make the Dolphins’ running back tandem one of the best in the league in 2024.
Overall, the AFC East looks to be a competitive division in the 2024 season, with multiple teams vying for playoff spots and divisional supremacy. The additions of key players like Haason Reddick and Raheem Mostert by the Jets and Dolphins, respectively, signal a strong push for success in the upcoming season. With the potential for a three-way race for the divisional crown, fans can expect intense matchups and exciting football as the teams battle it out on the field. The success of each team will depend on the health and performance of their star players, and all eyes will be on the AFC East as the season unfolds.
