FLORHAM PARK, NJ — The New York Jets have severed their last link to the ill-fated Aaron Rodgers era by releasing wide receiver Allen Lazard, a source confirmed to ESPN on Tuesday.
Lazard, 30, healthy through four games, played no consistent role on offense and requested to be released in hopes of landing with a contender, a source told ESPN, and the Jets (3-11), determined to evaluate their young receivers, obliged.
He failed to live up to expectations after signing a four-year, $44 million contract in 2023, one of the moves intended to lure Rodgers to New York. Lazard and Rodgers developed a connection during their five seasons with the Green Bay Packers.
Lazard seemed to have lost last offseason, especially when Rodgers was released in March, but he ended up taking an $8.75 million pay cut to stay. He would become a free agent after this season, as the Jets agreed to void the final year of his contract.
In three seasons with the Jets, Lazard recorded 70 receptions for 911 yards and eight touchdowns. His playing time was limited to just 250 snaps this season; he finished with 10 catches for 70 yards and a touchdown.
In total, he made $24 million during his time with the Jets, who use Adonai Mitchell, John Metchie III and Isaiah Williams as their primary receivers.
No. 1 receiver Garrett Wilson has missed the last five games due to knee surgery. Coach Aaron Glenn said he “hopes” Wilson plays again this season, but that seems unlikely.
Lazard’s release was first reported by Pro Football Talk.
