Jets GM says team has a lot to prove: 'Excitement doesn't win games'

Although there's a lot of excitement around the Jets ahead of the 2023 season, New York general manager Joe Douglas is aware that the preseason hype doesn't mean anything.

"We're excited to be in the conversations as one of the better teams in the league," Douglas said Thursday, according to Brian Costello of the New York Post. "Excitement doesn't win games. We've got a lot to prove."

After starting three different quarterbacks and missing the playoffs last season, the Jets acquired four-time NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers in a trade from the Green Bay Packers. New York also brought in four-time Pro Bowl running back Dalvin Cook and wide receivers Allen Lazard and Mecole Hardman, among others.

In addition, the Jets had a top-five defense last year and feature a 2022 draft class that includes wideout Garrett Wilson and cornerback Sauce Gardner. New York is looking to end the league's longest postseason draught at 12 straight campaigns.

Several Jets players have embraced the high expectations regarding the team. Cook recently said winning the Super Bowl is a "very realistic" possibility for N.Y.

"I'll let everybody debate what that looks like," Douglas said when asked what a successful 2023 season would be for his club. "We're not running or hiding from any expectations that are out there. I think, when the dust settles, you want to be in the conversation as one of those teams that can compete for a Super Bowl. You get a ticket into the dance and anything happens."

Coming off a 7-10 season, the Jets kick off their 2023 campaign at home against the Buffalo Bills on Sept. 11.

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