Prior to Andre Roberts’ arrival in the Big Apple, the Jets’ return game was stagnant. Big kickoff returns were rare. Punt returns usually resulted in either a fair catch, minimal gain or costly fumble.
That all changed in 2019 with Roberts revitalizing a return game that had been dormant for years. The nine-year veteran led the NFL in kick return yards, registered 29 returns of over 20 yards and took one to the house against the Green Bay Packers. On punts, Roberts averaged 14.1 yards per return and returned one for a touchdown in Week 1 against the Detroit Lions.
For his efforts, Roberts was named an All-Pro for the first time in his career. Re-signing him seemed like a no-brainer, but the Jets had other plans and surprisingly allowed Roberts to walk in free agency, as he signed with the rival Bills.
“Yeah, back when it happened,” Roberts told The Buffalo News when asked if New York’s decision surprised him. “But now, I really don’t even care. I love it here and I’m enjoying every single day. The atmosphere here that coach (Sean) McDermott brings and what he expects is pretty awesome. And I love it.”
Now, Roberts will have the chance to take on his former team twice next season. Roberts has already admitted that the opportunity to square off with the Jets multiple times played a role in his decision to sign with the Bills, so it comes as no surprise that he has New York circled on his calendar.
“I want to play well those two games for sure,” Roberts said. “But each and every game is very important and I’ll treat it as such.”
Whenever the Jets take on the Bills, tension is high. With Roberts on Buffalo’s sideline, the matchups between the two teams will have a little added juice in 2019.
