It’s going to be a while before Jets fans get to see their team play in person at MetLife Stadium.
With the COVID-19 pandemic still in full swing, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy announced on Monday that his executive order restricting outdoor public gatherings to 500 people will apply to MetLife Stadium events. That means no fans will attend Jets or Giants games “until circumstances change,” according to a joint statement issued by both teams.
By the time circumstances change, things could be a little bit different at One Jets Drive. With fans not due back at MetLife Stadium for the foreseeable future, let’s take a stab at predicting what could be different about the Jets when spectators return to the Meadowlands.
A new head coach
With the coronavirus showing no signs of slowing down, Jets head coach Adam Gase could have an entire year’s worth of fanless home games ahead of him. That could be good news for him, as Gase will not have to deal with constant boos throughout the season and Jets fans will not have to be in attendance to witness his dismal play calling.
This is a make or break year for Gase. He is entering only his second season with New York, but could find himself on the chopping block if the Jets endure yet another underwhelming season under his leadership — a likely scenario considering the schedule the Jets have to play this upcoming season.
If there is one positive from Jets fans not being able to enter MetLife Stadium in 2020, it’s that they will not have to witness the brutality in person. By the time fans are allowed back in their seats, Gase could be gone.
Gregg Williams calling the shots
An empty MetLife Stadium in 2020 could lead to top-notch entertainment courtesy of the Jets defensive coordinator Gregg Williams given his propensity for making his feelings known on the sideline.
On a more serious note, there is a chance that this upcoming season is Williams’ last as New York’s defensive coordinator before earning himself a promotion. If the Jets move on from Gase, Williams will likely be a top candidate to replace him, especially in the middle of the season.
Williams has organizational support. He also has the entire locker room behind him. As long as he produces another stellar New York defense in 2020, there is a chance Williams is the one calling the shots at MetLife once fans return.
A different look at running back
Most of the Jets’ fanbase spent all of last offseason anticipating Le’Veon Bell’s arrival in the Big Apple. Unfortunately, 2019 might have been their only chance to see him live in action.
New York inked Bell to a four-year deal in free agency, but it can get out of his contract after year two with few financial ramifications. If the former Pro Bowler struggles again this upcoming season, he could be out the door before MetLife opens back up for the return of the fans that spent months clamoring for him.
No more Jamal Adams
Like Le’Veon Bell, there is a chance Jamal Adams has played his final home game in front of a MetLife Stadium crowd.
If the Jets can’t eventually agree to a contract extension with Adams, odds are he will be traded. Joe Douglas and company would like to hang onto Adams as long as possible considering the Jets have him under control for up to four more years, but Adams has been vocal in his frustrations with the organization and could become a headache.
At this point, there is a 50-50 chance Adams will be on the field once fans return to MetLife. If negotiations continue to trend in the wrong direction, though, Jets fans might be looking at a new strong safety when they return to their seats.
