Takeaways from the fourth episode of Jets 'Hard Knocks'

The New York Jets are no longer the NFL's punching bag, and they're not afraid to let others know. 

Episode four of "Hard Knocks '23: Training Camp with the New York Jets" possessed its fair share of expletive-filled tirades and boisterous trash talk. And while the Jets are clearly willing to talk the talk, it appears they're also more than capable of walking the walk.

Here are three takeaways from this week's episode. 

Aaron Rodgers is human

Even four-time MVPs are sometimes subject to bad days.

That was the case in Tuesday's episode, during which Rodgers and the offense were not on the same page early on. When the 39-year-old wasn't overthrowing targets or getting sacked, his wide receivers were dropping passes and running incorrect routes.

The uncharacteristically bad practice clearly affected Rodgers, who stormed off to the sideline and voiced his aggression to an invisible audience. After regaining his composure, however, he called over wide receiver Garrett Wilson and devised a play that worked seamlessly on the next drive. 

The Jets possess the sixth-toughest schedule based on their opponent's combined record in 2022, with many of their toughest games coming in the first half of the season. Rodgers' outburst was a stark reminder that despite the sky-high expectations, the upcoming season might not be entirely sunshine and rainbows. 

Jason Brownlee and Xavier Gipson are the feel-good story of training camp

Wide receivers Jason Brownlee and Xavier Gipson's once overlooked talent was put on full display in Hard Knocks.

The undrafted duo first met at the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl, during which they both turned heads with several highlight-reel plays. After falling out of the 2023 NFL Draft, the wideouts found out at the same time that they'd be joining the Jets.

Brownlee impressed coach Robert Saleh and co. throughout training camp, though truly made a name for himself after reeling in a ridiculous one-handed catch during practice. 

Gipson has likewise excelled on special teams and in the slot during the Jets first four preseason games.