Allen Lazard hasn’t produced all season and hasn’t played much in the past three weeks, with zero receptions in two games and one healthy scratch on Nov. 24.
The Jets might need the $44 million receiver to play more on Sunday against the Texans with Jason Brownlee ruled out with an ankle injury.
“Lazard’s been doing a good job these last couple of weeks and it’ll be a really good opportunity for him to flex some muscle,” Jets coach Robert Saleh said before Friday’s practice.
The 27-year-old Lazard, who also has lost playing time to rookie Xavier Gipson, has totaled just 20 receptions for 290 yards and one touchdown this season.
“I just want to bring a spark to the offense with whatever opportunities I get,’’ Lazard said Thursday. “Obviously, catching the ball would be nice. I want to get first downs, score touchdowns, make big blocks for Breece [Hall] and Dalvin [Cook].
“I just want to continue to be a leader in the locker room even though my success hasn’t been what I would like it to be. That doesn’t mean I should waver on how I conduct myself every day.”
Asked about his decreased playing time, Lazard added, “You’ve got to ask the coaches. That whole situation is beyond me. I show up and I work hard every single day. I can’t decide if I’m out there on the plays or if the plays are designed for me. As a receiver, a lot of things have to go right for a lot of us to even have an opportunity to succeed or fail. I just go about my business and not worried about how other people are attacking my character or performance this year.’’
Right guard Wes Schweitzer also is out with an ankle injury, meaning the Jets will start their 10th offensive line combination in 13 games this season, and their ninth straight with a new configuration.
“I thought last year was the worst it’s ever been. Last year was carnage, and I don’t know if there’s another word for it,” Saleh said.
Saleh said the Jets “feel good about game day” for Hall (ankle).
Aaron Rodgers officially has been ruled out after being a limited participant again in practice.
John Franklin-Myers (ankle) also was limited.