As the curtain begins to fall on a turbulent 2025 season, the New York Jets are preparing for their final home game - a Week 17 showdown against the AFC East-leading New England Patriots at MetLife Stadium. At 3-12, the Jets are well out of playoff contention, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing left to play for. In fact, this game offers several key storylines that could shape the narrative heading into the offseason.
Let’s break down what to watch as the Jets take the field one last time in front of their home crowd.
1. The Final Home Stand: One Last Look at MetLife
This Sunday marks the Jets’ final appearance at MetLife Stadium this season. For a fanbase that's endured more heartbreak than highlights in 2025, it's a chance to say goodbye to a forgettable year - but also to evaluate what pieces might be worth keeping as the franchise looks ahead.
The energy in the building will be worth watching. Will the team show any spark?
Will the fans come out in force or will the empty seats speak volumes? These are the subtle but telling signs of where this team stands, not just on the field but in the hearts of its supporters.
2. Motivation Check: Does This Team Still Have Fight?
After a brief midseason stretch where the Jets won three of five, the wheels have come off again. Last week’s blowout loss to a struggling New Orleans squad raised serious questions about effort and engagement. This isn’t just about losing - it’s about how they’re losing.
Head coach Aaron Glenn is in a tough spot. He’s tasked with rallying a locker room that knows the season is all but over.
But this matchup against a 12-3 Patriots team offers a unique challenge - and maybe even a chance to play spoiler. Can Glenn inspire one more competitive effort?
If nothing else, this game could serve as a litmus test for who’s still bought in and who’s already mentally checked out.
3. Ending the Interception Drought: Can the Defense Finally Deliver?
The Jets defense has made some history this season - but not the kind you want to be remembered for. Glenn’s unit now holds the NFL record for most consecutive games without an interception. That’s not just a stat; it’s a symptom of a defense that’s lacked playmaking ability in critical moments.
If there’s a silver lining, it’s this: Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye has thrown eight interceptions this season. He’s been impressive overall, but he’s also shown a willingness to take risks.
If the Jets are going to end this streak, this might be their best shot. For a defense in desperate need of a confidence boost, a pick - any pick - could go a long way.
4. Breece Hall’s Chase for 1,000: A Bright Spot in a Dim Season
In a year where the offense has struggled to find rhythm, Breece Hall has been a consistent bright spot. The dynamic back enters Week 17 with 954 rushing yards, putting him within striking distance of the 1,000-yard mark - a milestone that still means something, especially in an offense that’s had trouble moving the ball.
Hall has been one of the few players who’s delivered week in and week out, and reaching 1,000 yards would be a deserved reward for his effort and durability. Against a stout Patriots defense, he’ll have to earn every yard - but don’t be surprised if the Jets feed him early and often to help him get there.
5. Brady Cook’s Audition: Can He Show Backup Potential?
With the season winding down, the Jets appear ready to give Brady Cook an extended look under center. No one’s pretending Cook is the future franchise quarterback - but in a league where quality backups are hard to come by, this is a chance for him to prove he belongs on an NFL sideline.
The Patriots come into this one with the NFL’s 11th-ranked pass defense, allowing just over 200 yards per game. That’s a tough assignment for any quarterback, let alone a young one still trying to find his footing.
But this is the kind of opportunity that can either solidify a roster spot or send a player back to the drawing board. Cook’s performance won’t make or break the Jets’ future, but it could determine his place in it.
Final Thoughts
There’s no sugarcoating it - this has been a rough season for the Jets. But even in a lost year, moments still matter. Whether it’s ending a defensive drought, celebrating a personal milestone, or evaluating young talent, Sunday’s game offers more than just a final score.
It’s one last chance to compete, to evaluate, and maybe - just maybe - to give the fans something to cheer about before the long offseason begins.