‘Valiant’ Sauce Gardner backs himself to target opposition’s No.1 receivers in the upcoming season

Sauce Gardner has a boatload of accolades in just two years' time.

‘Valiant’ Sauce Gardner backs himself to target opposition’s No.1 receivers in the upcoming season

Sauce Gardner (via IMAGO)

Sauce Gardner has never been the one to run away from a challenge. Being in their second year in the NFL, the cornerback established himself among the star players of the New York Jets after becoming the first CB since the NFL/AFL merger in 1970 to make first-team All-Pro consecutively in both his seasons. 

With the 2024 season approaching, CB Gardner is aiming high as he seeks to shadow the opponents’ No. 1 wide receiver. This would require him to part ways with the customary left-cornerback position and travel around the formation. But he is ready to explore more. 

I'm always looking forward to the challenge. I'd like to call myself one of the best in the game, if not the best. I'm always open to compete. I always want to challenge myself, challenge other people. But, ultimately, I just want to do whatever it takes for the team to win because that's what it's all about– winning games.
said Sauce Garner via the team’s official website

Fortunately for Gardner, the Jets as well are also open to pushing the cornerback in that direction as their defense is zone-based and relies upon minimal complexity. The Jets are also ranked fourth in the league in terms of defensive yardage allowed. 

FS Video

Robert Saleh open to creative moves for Sauce Gardner

During last Tuesday’s OTAs, head coach Robert Saleh, as well, spoke on the subject of Gardner’s move saying he is more than open to that idea, this season. Given, that in just two years, the star CB has acquired two Pro Bowl, First-Team All-Pro selections and Defensive Rookie of the Year, while also dealing with opposition to best of his capacity. 

Robert Saleh and Sauce Gardner
Robert Saleh and Sauce Gardner (Via NY Post)
When you have a guy like him, you just got to try to find ways to be creative with him. You have to evolve in this league. Obviously, every year you're going to try new things. Some things stick, some things don't, but this is the time of year to try all that stuff.
Robert Saleh said on Tuesday

Saleh called Gardner a ‘weapon’ that the team intended to use from a defensive point of view. Moreover, the two-time Pro Bowler would have six primetime games to show versatility on the football field. 

In case you missed: