Mary Gilmore, Staff Writer
The New York Jets have spiraled into crisis mode after dropping to an 0-4 record by losing to the Miami Dolphins. The loss was particularly stinging given that the Dolphins entered the game winless at 0-3, making the Jets performance all the more troubling for fans.
Heading into Week 4, both the Jets and Dolphins were desperate to avoid an 0-4 start. The Dolphins had experienced inconsistent play throughout the first three weeks of the season. Playing against the Jets, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa remained composed, connecting with tight end Darren Waller for two red zone touchdowns. This game was Waller’s first since 2023. Running Back De’Von Achane added 99 rushing yards and a touchdown, helping Miami get the win.
However, in the third quarter, Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill suffered a severe knee injury. This injury will sideline him for the rest of the season. Even without their star wide receiver, the Dolphins took the win against the Jets.
The Jets, meanwhile, showed some signs of offensive life. Fields, returning from a concussion that sidelined him in Week 3, completed 20 of 27 passes for 226 yards and a touchdown. He also led the team in rushing with 81 yards, including a 43-yard scramble for a score. Garrett Wilson continued to be a reliable target, hauling in six catches for 82 yards and a late touchdown that brought the Jets within six points.
Despite outgaining the Dolphins in total yards and first downs, the Jets’ inability to protect the football lost them the game. Three fumbles by the Jets gave Miami the ball, including one especially damaging fumble by Braelon Allen. His fumble at the goal line on the Jets opening drive erased a potential touchdown and led to a 96-yard scoring drive by the Dolphins.
New York’s defense failed to generate a single takeaway and struggled to contain Miami. Sauce Gardner, who had a strong Week 1 showing, was beaten by Waller for a touchdown and has looked shaky in recent weeks.
The Jets also committed 13 penalties, more than double Miami’s total, giving the Dolphins more chances for the ball. Jets head coach Aaron Glenn has continually emphasized the new discipline he’s implementing in the team. Unfortunately, Monday’s performance suggested that these goals may only be that of Glenn’s rather than the whole team.
The Jets are now one of only three winless teams in the NFL, alongside the Tennessee Titans and New Orleans Saints. New York, however, entered the season with expectations of competitiveness, especially after acquiring Fields and changing up the coaching staff.
The Jets will face the Dallas Cowboys in Week 5, a team that has gone 1-2-1 with their tie against the Green Bay Packers. If the Jets hope to salvage their season, they must address their turnover issues, tighten their defensive coverage, and find a way to build on Fields’ capabilities.
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