Jet fans, brace yourselves!

The New York Jets are once again shaking things up as they prepare to face the Arizona Cardinals in what is being dubbed a "must-win" game. In a surprising twist, they will elevate Spencer Shrader from their practice squad, marking the team's third kicker to start in as many games.

What’s Going On?

After parting ways with Riley Patterson just one week into his tenure, the Jets signed Anders Carlson to the practice squad. However, it's Shrader who will take the field on Sunday. Interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich confirmed on Friday that Shrader had an impressive practice, leading to his elevation.

Just a year ago, the kicking position was solidified with Greg Zuerlein. Now, it has turned into a chaotic situation with constant changes. Shrader, only 25 and a recent graduate from Notre Dame, has yet to attempt a field goal in an NFL regular season game. His only experience came earlier this season with the Indianapolis Colts, where he successfully kicked three extra points but didn’t have a chance to showcase his field goal skills.

The Kicking Carousel Continues

The turmoil for the Jets began back on October 30 when Zuerlein was sidelined with an undisclosed knee injury after a string of disappointing performances, including crucial misses in a tight loss against the New England Patriots. This prompted the team to begin their search for a replacement.

Patterson, who stepped in as Zuerlein’s replacement, succeeded in his first game by converting three extra points, though one kick hit the upright, raising some eyebrows. Despite his initial success, his lack of touchbacks on kickoffs led the Jets to pursue a "live leg" option, ultimately leading to Shrader's promotion.

The Jets also signed Anders Carlson, a recent release from the San Francisco 49ers, where he was filling in for injured kickers Jake Moody and Matthew Wright. Carlson has demonstrated potential, going 5-for-5 on field goals, including a long of 55 yards, during his short stint. The sixth-round pick of the Green Bay Packers, who was acquired in the Aaron Rodgers trade, adds another layer of intrigue to this kicking saga.

The Door Remains Ajar for Zuerlein

Despite the current upheaval, the Jets are not completely closing the door on Zuerlein's return. General Manager Joe Douglas expressed optimism, stating that the team still believes in Zuerlein’s abilities and that this period could serve as a "reset" for the veteran kicker.

On a brighter note, the Jets are also expecting the return of right guard Alijah Vera-Tucker from a high-ankle sprain and left guard John Simpson, who missed the last game due to a groin injury. The Jets (3-6) have managed to break their five-game losing streak, yet their playoff hopes remain slim, currently sitting at just an 18% chance per ESPN Analytics.

What does this mean for the Jets?

As they gear up for this crucial matchup against the Cardinals, will Spencer Shrader rise to the occasion, or will the Jets continue to stumble in a season fraught with challenges? Tune in on Sunday to see if the Jets can turn their fortunes around!