New York Jets: 4 things we want to see on HBO‘s Hard Knocks

Every season, one NFL franchise grants HBO unprecedented access behind the scenes. Not all teams are eager to welcome in the cameras. Or the added attention that a program like Hard Knocks inevitably brings. But thanks to a league-wide rule, Roger Goodell gets the final call. This year, the Jets drew the short stick.

HBO’s Hard Knocks is a staple in the NFL world

There are a few special requirements that most teams fall under, keeping them from being eligible for the television program. If an organization has a first-year head coach, they will not be required to appear. Another qualifier is whether or not the team earned a playoff berth in either of the past two seasons. If so, they are out.

The final part takes into account the last time the franchise was selected for Hard Knocks. If it was at any point in the past decade, you guessed it — they are out. The vast majority of the league falls under at least one of these umbrellas. But a handful of squads slip through the cracks, providing the NFL with a short list of suitors.

New York reluctantly takes center stage for Hard Knocks

The only four teams eligible for Hard Knocks in 2023 include the Bears, Commanders, Saints, and the topic of today’s conversation: The New York Jets. Just because the higher-ups can force the Jets to take part in the show, it doesn’t mean they are happy about it.

By all accounts, it is quite the contrary. Not only did New York push back on being the focal point of the season, the front office outright said it would not grant the typical access that viewers are used to. With potential fines hanging over the Jets’ head, my gut says they will comply.

Jets: 4 things we want to see on HBO ‘s Hard Knocks

So, after a potentially franchise-altering offseason, what do we want to see from the upcoming season of Hard Knocks? The Jets own Super Bowl aspirations, but the first step toward a championship will be made at training camp.