The Mike White Era was a white-hot flash of excitement and hope that seemingly ended almost as soon as it began. You could say it was the epitome of everything fans have come to expect from the New York Jets.
White, who stepped in to start in place of Zach Wilson, garnered some hype in early goings, even inspiring some Jets fans to dream of their version of the Tom Brady ascent. But soon, White faded from the bright lights of the spotlight. Things came crashing down last weekend when he threw four interceptions in the Jets’ 45-17 loss to the Buffalo Bills.
Joe Flacco, whom the Jets traded to get back from the Philadelphia Eagles a few weeks ago, finished the game, going 3-for-3 with 47 yards and a touchdown. Apparently, that was enough for head coach Robert Saleh to decide it was time for the veteran to return to the starting role while they wait for Wilson.
BREAKING: In a surprise, the Jets are planning to start Joe Flacco vs Miami, source tells ESPN. Zach Wilson still not 100%. Flacco’s experience likely a big factor in the decision, facing blitz-heavy D. #Jets
— Rich Cimini (@RichCimini) November 17, 2021
As for why the Jets will start Flacco over White, the opponent also factors into the decision. According to Saleh, Flacco is expected to be more likely to be able to handle their “complex” defense.
From NFL Now: Joe Flacco will start for the #Jets this week. pic.twitter.com/rxD60h29rK
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 17, 2021
Presumably, Wilson will be back soon to reclaim his starting role. But in the meantime, the return of Flacco-mania has plenty of Jets fans and NFL folks in their feelings.
THE JETS: obviously we are bad, but here's a tiny cool thing. it's small and meaningless but you can have it
ME, A JETS FAN: I would die for this tiny little thing, I love it and cherish it
THE JETS: (ripping the one thing away from me) lmao
THE JETS (stomping on it) lmaoooooooo https://t.co/uq1pTKkbBo— Rodger Sherman (@rodger) November 17, 2021
A bad game by Flacco and the Jets could have the TOP THREE QBs in turnover-worthy play rate.
I've never rooted for anything so much in my life. https://t.co/cNph770qSb
— Sam Monson (@PFF_Sam) November 17, 2021
The move also has to perk up the ears over in Philadelphia, where they have a vested interest in seeing Flacco play as much as possible.
Reminder: The #Eagles will get a 2022 5th-rounder if Flacco plays more than 50% of the snaps in four games this season, rather than a 6th rounder. https://t.co/36s9lOT7av
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 17, 2021
Flacco and the Jets will get their day to prove that the strategy makes sense when they host the Dolphins at 1:00 p.m. EST on Sunday.
