A new era of Jets football started today as Mark Sanchez was named starter just a few months after being picked with the 4th pick in the NFL draft. As I've stated in previous posts I always thought that Sanchez would and should start. Now that the day has come and he has been named starter I have to say that I am very happy about it. Although Kellen Clemens has put in his years in the organization, and i do feel for him, he has not impressed me this year in what I have seen in games and heard from training camp. He will once again be a very serviceable second string QB.
Now onto Sanchez...
He has not convincingly earned this job through training camp. However, he has shown enough to show that he won't completely melt down as the starter for this team. He will be helped by a great offensive line which should provide more than adequate protection and give him time to make the throws. He will be thrown into the fire the first week against the Texans and Jets fans everywhere are going to hope that it will be the first of many, many, many years of him behind center.
Will Sanchez do well this year...
In my opinion Sanchez will have a sub-par year as the starting QB. The Jets record will suffer because of having a rookie QB behind center and I will be surprised if they finish with a winning record. (Official prediction will be made after the 4th preseason game) He will make mistakes and I am prepared to deal with that as long as he is able to grow and mature into a solid starting QB for many years to come. In order for the Jets to do well this year Thomas Jones and Leon Washington are going to have to put up great performances and take the pressure off the rookie QB.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Monday, August 24, 2009
Preseason #2: Jets vs. Ravens
The Jets lost tonight but since I don't really care about wins and losses in the preseason I will get right into my post game analysis by looking at the two quarterbacks and their performances tonight:
1. Sanchez's performance in this game was very underwhelming. He finished with the first half at 3/8 with 43 yards, 1 touchdown and 1 interception. I'll take it possessoin by possession through his first ever NFL start.
First Possession:
Sanchez got his first look at the Ravens defense and Ray Lewis forces him to throw an interception right into the hands of Haloti Ngata for a defensive touchdown. Sanchez has to make a quicker read and dump the ball off or has to just hold on and take a sack.
Second Possession:
On his second drop back to pass of the game Sanchez almost throws another pick-six right to Ray Lewis. Sanchez stared down his WR over the middle and Lewis jumped the route and missed an easy interception. Sanchez needs to look off his receivers and not allow the defensive players to read his eyes. Sanchez commits another error with a delay of game penalty.
Sanchez has a positive play in this possession when he escapes the pressure aon third down and makes a good throw down the sideline to Brad Smith. However, this play is brought back for offensive interference.
Third Possession:
This is pretty much a lost possession for Sanchez as the Jets run a risky reverse on first down and never give Sanchez the chance to throw the ball.
Fourth Possession:
Sanchez still hasn't completed a pass and is getting chased around behind a shaky offensive line. He also commits another error with the second delay of game penalty of the night.
Fifth Possession:
Sanchez finally gets it going on this possession with a lot of help from Leon Washington. Washington converts on two third and longs on both a screen pass and a draw play. Sanchez fumbles a handoff and has a miscommunication with Jerricho Cotchery. However, Sanchez turns it around by throwing a touchdown pass down the sideline to Washington after getting flushed out of the pocket to the right and seeing Leon on a linebacker.
Overall, Sanchez did not play a very solid first half. However, the Ravens defense has flustered many well established QB's and Sanchez was able to come back on his fifth possession and throw a touchdown pass down the sideline after escaping pressure.
Kellen Clemens:
Clemens will not get the same write up as Sanchez because he didn't get reps against the first team defense. Clemens threw a terrible interception to end the first half which was more a result of bad play calling. However, Clemens came out strong in the second half with a great throw to David Clowney, Mr. August, down the sideline. Clemens didn't show enough to cement himself as the starter tonight because most of what he did was against the second and third team defenses.
Here are some THUMBS UP for todays game:
1. Leon Washington:
Leon Washington played a great game tonight. He showed, yet again, why he should be given an extension and paid the 5-6 million dollars a year that he is asking for. On Sanchez's TD drive he converted on 3 straight 3rd down conversions, one resulting in a touchdown. Washington also had a great kick return in the first half that would have ended up as a touchdown if he hadn't tripped slightly. I was very impressed at Leon running inside the tackles tonight. Everyone knows that he can run on the outside but if he can learn to get the hard yards up the middle he will become a better all around running back.
2. Dwight Lowery:
I loved the way Lowery played in this game mostly because of his tackling. On the first defensive possession Lowery made two great open field tackles and successfully defended a long pass down the sideline.
3. Defensive Pressure:
The defense managed to get pressure from many different sources tonight. Ryan let it all out in the first few possessions and Bart Scott made a great return to Baltimore and got tons of pressure on the QB. David Harris also picked up another sack and was all over the running game. Between Scott and Harris, the Jets will have the best MLB crew in the NFL this season. Calvin Pace also picked up a sack and shows why we will miss him for the first 4 games of the season.
And of course some THUMBS DOWN:
1. Vernon Gholston:
As I said in my pregame post, this game was huge for Gholston. He put up a terrible performance in this game and looked soft, stiff and slow. I keyed on him throughout the second half and he spent most of his time running straight into the offensive line and making no impact whatsoever. By this time in his career, he should be at least making some impact in the pass rushing game and he hasn't done that in the slightest. The bust label isn't out yet, but if Gholston doesn't show something to me soon I will be ready to write him off like most other Jets fans already have.
2. Drew Coleman:
Drew Coleman showed tonight that he shouldn't even make this team. He got burned down the sideline by Derrick Mason which was a huge play that led to a touchdown. There have to be better cornerbacks out there than Drew Coleman.
1. Sanchez's performance in this game was very underwhelming. He finished with the first half at 3/8 with 43 yards, 1 touchdown and 1 interception. I'll take it possessoin by possession through his first ever NFL start.
First Possession:
Sanchez got his first look at the Ravens defense and Ray Lewis forces him to throw an interception right into the hands of Haloti Ngata for a defensive touchdown. Sanchez has to make a quicker read and dump the ball off or has to just hold on and take a sack.
Second Possession:
On his second drop back to pass of the game Sanchez almost throws another pick-six right to Ray Lewis. Sanchez stared down his WR over the middle and Lewis jumped the route and missed an easy interception. Sanchez needs to look off his receivers and not allow the defensive players to read his eyes. Sanchez commits another error with a delay of game penalty.
Sanchez has a positive play in this possession when he escapes the pressure aon third down and makes a good throw down the sideline to Brad Smith. However, this play is brought back for offensive interference.
Third Possession:
This is pretty much a lost possession for Sanchez as the Jets run a risky reverse on first down and never give Sanchez the chance to throw the ball.
Fourth Possession:
Sanchez still hasn't completed a pass and is getting chased around behind a shaky offensive line. He also commits another error with the second delay of game penalty of the night.
Fifth Possession:
Sanchez finally gets it going on this possession with a lot of help from Leon Washington. Washington converts on two third and longs on both a screen pass and a draw play. Sanchez fumbles a handoff and has a miscommunication with Jerricho Cotchery. However, Sanchez turns it around by throwing a touchdown pass down the sideline to Washington after getting flushed out of the pocket to the right and seeing Leon on a linebacker.
Overall, Sanchez did not play a very solid first half. However, the Ravens defense has flustered many well established QB's and Sanchez was able to come back on his fifth possession and throw a touchdown pass down the sideline after escaping pressure.
Kellen Clemens:
Clemens will not get the same write up as Sanchez because he didn't get reps against the first team defense. Clemens threw a terrible interception to end the first half which was more a result of bad play calling. However, Clemens came out strong in the second half with a great throw to David Clowney, Mr. August, down the sideline. Clemens didn't show enough to cement himself as the starter tonight because most of what he did was against the second and third team defenses.
Here are some THUMBS UP for todays game:
1. Leon Washington:
Leon Washington played a great game tonight. He showed, yet again, why he should be given an extension and paid the 5-6 million dollars a year that he is asking for. On Sanchez's TD drive he converted on 3 straight 3rd down conversions, one resulting in a touchdown. Washington also had a great kick return in the first half that would have ended up as a touchdown if he hadn't tripped slightly. I was very impressed at Leon running inside the tackles tonight. Everyone knows that he can run on the outside but if he can learn to get the hard yards up the middle he will become a better all around running back.
2. Dwight Lowery:
I loved the way Lowery played in this game mostly because of his tackling. On the first defensive possession Lowery made two great open field tackles and successfully defended a long pass down the sideline.
3. Defensive Pressure:
The defense managed to get pressure from many different sources tonight. Ryan let it all out in the first few possessions and Bart Scott made a great return to Baltimore and got tons of pressure on the QB. David Harris also picked up another sack and was all over the running game. Between Scott and Harris, the Jets will have the best MLB crew in the NFL this season. Calvin Pace also picked up a sack and shows why we will miss him for the first 4 games of the season.
And of course some THUMBS DOWN:
1. Vernon Gholston:
As I said in my pregame post, this game was huge for Gholston. He put up a terrible performance in this game and looked soft, stiff and slow. I keyed on him throughout the second half and he spent most of his time running straight into the offensive line and making no impact whatsoever. By this time in his career, he should be at least making some impact in the pass rushing game and he hasn't done that in the slightest. The bust label isn't out yet, but if Gholston doesn't show something to me soon I will be ready to write him off like most other Jets fans already have.
2. Drew Coleman:
Drew Coleman showed tonight that he shouldn't even make this team. He got burned down the sideline by Derrick Mason which was a huge play that led to a touchdown. There have to be better cornerbacks out there than Drew Coleman.
Jets vs. Ravens Pregame Analysis
The Jets will go down to Baltimore tonight to face off with the Ravens. Here are a few things I'll be looking for in tonight's game.
1. The big news surrounding this game for the Jets is that Mark Sanchez will get his first ever start in a Jets uniform. As I have said before, THIS IS NOT GROUNDBREAKING NEWS. Sanchez was expected to start this game since Rex Ryan declared this to be a quarterback competition. Sanchez will have a tough time of it tonight against Ray Lewis and a punishing Ravens defense. Sanchez will have to be careful to not turn the ball over and will have to manage the game well in the two or so possessions that he will be in there.
2. Rex Ryan returns to his home in Baltimore with 2 of his former defensive starters. When Ryan came over to NY he brought Bart Scott and Jim Leonhard with him. Both of these players were standouts in the Ravens defense last year. Both these players should be pumped at getting the opportunity to go back to their former teams.
3. Vernon Gholston needs to show up tonight. Gholston will be starting this year at the OLB spot because of Calvin Pace's 4 game suspension. Gholston was non-existent in the first preseason game and he needs to make an effort tonight to get involved in and make some plays. Gholston needs to start shedding the "bust" label and starting the first 4 games this year is a great way to do it.
4. NO INJURIES. It can't be stated enough but an injury at this point in the preseason can be crippling for a team. A night of no injuries would be 100x better than any win the Jets could get tonight.
1. The big news surrounding this game for the Jets is that Mark Sanchez will get his first ever start in a Jets uniform. As I have said before, THIS IS NOT GROUNDBREAKING NEWS. Sanchez was expected to start this game since Rex Ryan declared this to be a quarterback competition. Sanchez will have a tough time of it tonight against Ray Lewis and a punishing Ravens defense. Sanchez will have to be careful to not turn the ball over and will have to manage the game well in the two or so possessions that he will be in there.
2. Rex Ryan returns to his home in Baltimore with 2 of his former defensive starters. When Ryan came over to NY he brought Bart Scott and Jim Leonhard with him. Both of these players were standouts in the Ravens defense last year. Both these players should be pumped at getting the opportunity to go back to their former teams.
3. Vernon Gholston needs to show up tonight. Gholston will be starting this year at the OLB spot because of Calvin Pace's 4 game suspension. Gholston was non-existent in the first preseason game and he needs to make an effort tonight to get involved in and make some plays. Gholston needs to start shedding the "bust" label and starting the first 4 games this year is a great way to do it.
4. NO INJURIES. It can't be stated enough but an injury at this point in the preseason can be crippling for a team. A night of no injuries would be 100x better than any win the Jets could get tonight.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Vick, Favre, and a few Jets Notes
Brett Favre:
First, I hate writing anything about this but I want to get it out of the way. Brett Favre has returned as a member of the Minnesota Vikings. I have nothing against Favre and I still believe that it was the right move to bring him in last year as the Jets starting QB. He provided excitement to the extent that I have never seen in my years as a fan. However, Favre is ruining his legacy by going to the Minnesota Vikings. He seems to be okay with alienating the fans that made him who he is. The Green Bay fans will take a long time to forgive Brett Favre for going to their biggest rival. This feeling will only intensify if he goes into Lambeau and beats them this year. Although I have nothing against Favre, I hope he crashes and burns in Minnesota.
Mike Vick:
I am in complete agreement that Mike Vick deserves another chance in the NFL. He served almost 2 years for his crimes and now he deserves a second chance. The Eagles made the move to pick him up and he has been received with open arms by Donovan McNabb and the Eagles team. I think he will have a successful career from here on out and will manage to keep himself out of trouble.
Jets Notes:
First, I hate writing anything about this but I want to get it out of the way. Brett Favre has returned as a member of the Minnesota Vikings. I have nothing against Favre and I still believe that it was the right move to bring him in last year as the Jets starting QB. He provided excitement to the extent that I have never seen in my years as a fan. However, Favre is ruining his legacy by going to the Minnesota Vikings. He seems to be okay with alienating the fans that made him who he is. The Green Bay fans will take a long time to forgive Brett Favre for going to their biggest rival. This feeling will only intensify if he goes into Lambeau and beats them this year. Although I have nothing against Favre, I hope he crashes and burns in Minnesota.
Mike Vick:
I am in complete agreement that Mike Vick deserves another chance in the NFL. He served almost 2 years for his crimes and now he deserves a second chance. The Eagles made the move to pick him up and he has been received with open arms by Donovan McNabb and the Eagles team. I think he will have a successful career from here on out and will manage to keep himself out of trouble.
Jets Notes:
- Leon Washington has been offered a deal at about 5 million a year. As I have mentioned in previous posts the Jets need to sign him soon. However, they should stick to this 5 million a year number and let Leon come down to them. His demand for 6 million a year is way too much and Leon will be smart to sign a deal while his value is high.
- The Jets are looking into trading for either Brandon Marhall or Dwayne Bowe. Either of these two guys would help improve a weak receiving core. Cotchery could be moved back to the #2 spot where he has excelled. More will come on this as we find out whether the Jets are actually pursuing or if its just a rumor.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Sanchez Starting Week 2
Everyone needs to settle down with the news that Sanchez is starting Week 2 of the preseason vs. the Ravens. It was previously determined that Clemens would start Week #1 vs. the Rams and Sanchez would get Week 2 against the Ravens. This gives both QB's the opportunity to start so Rex can see what they can do before he makes the decision. So stop looking at this as Sanchez having the edge on Clemens. He may have the edge in Rex's eyes but it is not because of this decision. Another one of ESPN's faults.
Friday, August 14, 2009
Preseason #1: Jets vs. Rams
Just got back from the Jets v. Rams game and feel pretty good about how it went. I won't focus on the score here (because it really doesn't matter) but here are a few good and bad things I noticed tonight.
Starting with the good....
1. Mark Sanchez looked great in his first action for the Jets. He gets rid of the ball extremely quickly and seems to have no problem making reads and finding the open receivers. Also, the one semi deep ball he threw was perfect and landed right over the receivers shoulder in a place where the CB had no chance for a play. I do not want to overstate it and say that this one drive moved Sanchez up on the depth chart but he definitely outplayed Clemens.
2. David Harris is going to have one hell of a season. I don't know if its the fact that he's healthy or Rex Ryan's system but Harris was all over every play while he was in tonight. He ended with 3 tackles and 1 sack but he was right there on every play.
3. Dustin Keller will lead the Jets in receptions this year. No matter what QB starts Keller is going to be the Jets #1 receiver. He has the speed and has no trouble finding spots in the defense where the QB can hit him.
4. SIGN LEON WASHINGTON. Leon is clearly Jets fans favorite player. Every time he steps back to return a kick the entire stadium goes crazy. If you have to give him 5 million a year to stay just do it and get it over with.
Now to the bad...
1. Clemens seems to be copying the Chad Pennington template of being a QB. He went 4-4 but only ended up with around 35 yards. Most of the first two drives were spent throwing little 2 yard patterns to receivers. He did not impress tonight.
2. Thomas Jones. I can't be too hard on Thomas Jones tonight because he was missing 3/5 members of the o-line. However, the mere fact that he rushed 9 times for 13 yards earns him a thumbs down for his performance. I'm sure he will come back with a stronger performance next game.
Only a crowd of about 25,000 (maybe less) tonight but it was still great to see the Jets on the field again. As always, it gives me goosebumps when Leon steps back there for the opening kickoff and I look forward to more in the coming weeks
Starting with the good....
1. Mark Sanchez looked great in his first action for the Jets. He gets rid of the ball extremely quickly and seems to have no problem making reads and finding the open receivers. Also, the one semi deep ball he threw was perfect and landed right over the receivers shoulder in a place where the CB had no chance for a play. I do not want to overstate it and say that this one drive moved Sanchez up on the depth chart but he definitely outplayed Clemens.
2. David Harris is going to have one hell of a season. I don't know if its the fact that he's healthy or Rex Ryan's system but Harris was all over every play while he was in tonight. He ended with 3 tackles and 1 sack but he was right there on every play.
3. Dustin Keller will lead the Jets in receptions this year. No matter what QB starts Keller is going to be the Jets #1 receiver. He has the speed and has no trouble finding spots in the defense where the QB can hit him.
4. SIGN LEON WASHINGTON. Leon is clearly Jets fans favorite player. Every time he steps back to return a kick the entire stadium goes crazy. If you have to give him 5 million a year to stay just do it and get it over with.
Now to the bad...
1. Clemens seems to be copying the Chad Pennington template of being a QB. He went 4-4 but only ended up with around 35 yards. Most of the first two drives were spent throwing little 2 yard patterns to receivers. He did not impress tonight.
2. Thomas Jones. I can't be too hard on Thomas Jones tonight because he was missing 3/5 members of the o-line. However, the mere fact that he rushed 9 times for 13 yards earns him a thumbs down for his performance. I'm sure he will come back with a stronger performance next game.
Only a crowd of about 25,000 (maybe less) tonight but it was still great to see the Jets on the field again. As always, it gives me goosebumps when Leon steps back there for the opening kickoff and I look forward to more in the coming weeks
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Camp Update: August 13
There have been numerous reports out of Jets camp in recent days that the Jets were looking to trade Thomas Jones to an NFC West team.
"Shoot, I'm not going to trade that," Ryan said. "You know what I'm all about and this guy is huge in our plans. I'm not going to trade the running back who led the AFC in rushing."
Looks like this matteris settled for now and Jones will continue to be the #1 running back this season.
In other running back news the Jets have reportedly have increased their offer to Leon Washington to 4.5 million. This is a 2 million dollar increase from their last offer and about 1.5 from what Washington is asking for. Look for the Jets to get this done before the next few weeks are out.
Preseason starts tomorrow when the Rams come into town. I will be attending the game tomorrow night and will write a fairly detailed report of what I felt were the high and low points. It looks like Clemens is starting but will probably split time in the first three quarters with Mark Sanchez. Look for Eric Ainge to get some reps in the 4th quarter. May have a pre-game post for tomorrow but there will definitely be one after.
"Shoot, I'm not going to trade that," Ryan said. "You know what I'm all about and this guy is huge in our plans. I'm not going to trade the running back who led the AFC in rushing."
Looks like this matteris settled for now and Jones will continue to be the #1 running back this season.
In other running back news the Jets have reportedly have increased their offer to Leon Washington to 4.5 million. This is a 2 million dollar increase from their last offer and about 1.5 from what Washington is asking for. Look for the Jets to get this done before the next few weeks are out.
Preseason starts tomorrow when the Rams come into town. I will be attending the game tomorrow night and will write a fairly detailed report of what I felt were the high and low points. It looks like Clemens is starting but will probably split time in the first three quarters with Mark Sanchez. Look for Eric Ainge to get some reps in the 4th quarter. May have a pre-game post for tomorrow but there will definitely be one after.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Position by Position Overview: WR, TE, FB, OL, CB, S, DL, LB
WR:
The wide receiver position is probably the weakest on the offensive side of the ball. The major loss of the offseason was Laverneus Coles, who has moved on to the Bengals. Coles has been the Jets #1 receiver for the last few years but was never happy with his contract. Replacing him now is Jerricho Corchery. Many believe that Cotchery has been the best receiver on the team for a few years. With steady hands and good evasiveness, Cotchery should be able to step up and make a difference on the offensive side of the ball.
The #2 WR position is one of the most unsettled spots in the organization. The front office opted to not address this issue in the offseason and is instead hoping that someone will step up and grab the spot. The likely candidates for this spot include Chansi Stuckey, David Clowney, and Brad Smith. These three wide receivers have never made a huge impact on the NFL level. However, Stuckey had 35 catches last year as a slot receiver and Clowney has a killer twitter page. One of these three receivers, as well as the plethora of others that are at camp will have to distinguish themselves to earn that coveted spot.
The wide receiver position was not addressed in the offseason with the hope that a largely unknown receivers would step up and prove themselves. I believe that the Jets will find a serviceable #2 receiver for this season. However, I think the issue needs to be further addressed next offseason.
TE/FB:
The tight end section is going to be short because Dustin Keller is developing into a top tight end in the league. His better than average speed and size allows him to dominate the center of hte field. With an inexperienced starting QB I believe that Keller will have a monster season and break into the top 5 TE's in the league. Kareem Brown, the former defensive end, will attempt to be the #2 tight end and the Jets leading run blocker at the position.
Tony Richardson will once again return as FB. His lead blocking led Thomas Jones to be the leading rusher in the league last year and is one of the most respected run blockers in the league.
OL:
The offensive line is probably the most solid part of the offensive unit. The line is returning 5 starters who gelled together last year and allowed Thomas Jones to become the leading rusher in the league. D'Brickshaw Ferguson is finally coming into his own and becoming the type of run blocker the Jets knew they were drafting with the 4th pick back in 2006. Next to him, Alan Fanaca has anchored the line and provided stability from the middle. His veteran presence has helped with the development of both Ferguson and Nick Mangold. Nick Mangold, another 2006 draft pick, has grown into a top center in the entire NFL. Taking over for Kevin Mawae in 2006, Mangold has had very few growing pains. The most overlooked member of the OL is right guard Brnadon Moore. Moore has become a very consistent, hard nosed guard who has excelled in run blocking. The Jets managed to retain him in the offseason after almost losing him to free agency. The right tackle position is filled by Damian Woody. Woody was signed by the Jets last year and made a seamless move to right tackle. He has become another good, solid lineman on a line that should help in the development of the young QB's.
The offensive line is the most impressive unit on the team. The line gelled together last year and should form a unit that dominates the opposition. The lack of depth on the OL is a problem and the Jets will have to hope that injuries do not strike this part of the team. If this unit is able to stay intact all year they should, once again, be a top 5 unit in the league.
CB:
The cornerback position should be a strength of the defense this year. Darrelle Revis returns as the top cornerback and will rarely have the all thrown to his side. His ability to limit the oppositions #1 receiver should provide plenty of opportunities for fellow CB's Lito Sheppard and Dwight Lowery to make plays. Sheppard is a new arrival from Philadelphia and should fill in as the #2 CB opposite of Revis. The ball will be thrown to his side plenty and he will have to be ready to make plays. Lowery fills in as the #3 CB after being the #2 most of last season. Despite not having amazing physical tools, Lowery is able to make plays and be a serviceable cornerback. With Revis and Lito in front of him, Lowery s hould be able to perform his duties in the slow CB role well.
S:
The safety position is loaded with talent. Kerry Rhodes, despite a lackluster past year, is returning with a vengeance and is ready to go to his first pro bowl. Rhodes is the best playmaker in the defensive backfield and he hsould be more active in the new Rex Ryan defense. Newly signed from Baltimore, Jim Leonhard enters the season as the other starting safety. Leonhard was a first time starter last season in Baltimore and despite his undersized frame, he came on strong and had a great season. The third safety is Eric Smith. Smith has had a great offseason and Ryan loves what he sees from him. He should be on the field a bunch this season and look for him to become a huge playmaker and maybe even replace Leonhard at some point.
DL:
The defensive line is a fairly strong unit that is anchored in the center by big Kris Jenkins. Jenkins weighs in at around 350 pounds and is one of the top 3-4 DT's in the NFL. He is able to occupy lineman and open up holes for the RB's and other blitzers. Jenkins faded at the end of last season but there are reports that he is ready this season and will be in even better shape. Jenkins is the most important member of the DL and he could be the major factor in determining the success of the team this year. The always solid Shaun Ellis returns to his 3-4 role which he has begun to excel at. Despite the fact that he is not putting up huge sack numbers, Ellis plays a large role against the run and will continue to play well. Marques Douglas enters the season as the biggest question mark at defense. Replacing Kenyon Coleman, Douglas has the size and strength to play DE in Rex Ryan's system. If he is unable to hold on to this role, look for Mike Devito to get some playing time.
LB:
The linebacker position has drastically changed since 2008. 2009 will open up with two starters from last season. Vernon Gholston will be the week 1 starter at one of the two OLB spots. The second year player comes into the season with diminished expectations after a terrible rookie campaign. This year Gholston will get a chance to prove himself as he starts the first 4 games for Calvin Pace, who is facing a drug suspension. If Gholston plays well in the OLB role, it could spell great things for the Jets defense once Pace comes back. Next to Pace/Gholston is newcomer Bart Scott. Coming in from Baltimore, Scott was the Jets biggest addition of the offseason. He is expected to bring tenacity and skill to the LB core which has been missing in recent years. He can cover and rush the passer and should anchor the LB. An overlooked player coming into this year is MLB David Harris. Harris is a great ILB who was derailed by injuries last year and never really got going. I believe that this year is the time when he will step up and prove to the league that he is a pro bowl middle linebacker. Bryan Thomas will line up in the other OLB role. Thomas has a huge contract but has not produced great results. I believe that he could be replaced early if Gholston plays well in his short stint as starter.
The wide receiver position is probably the weakest on the offensive side of the ball. The major loss of the offseason was Laverneus Coles, who has moved on to the Bengals. Coles has been the Jets #1 receiver for the last few years but was never happy with his contract. Replacing him now is Jerricho Corchery. Many believe that Cotchery has been the best receiver on the team for a few years. With steady hands and good evasiveness, Cotchery should be able to step up and make a difference on the offensive side of the ball.
The #2 WR position is one of the most unsettled spots in the organization. The front office opted to not address this issue in the offseason and is instead hoping that someone will step up and grab the spot. The likely candidates for this spot include Chansi Stuckey, David Clowney, and Brad Smith. These three wide receivers have never made a huge impact on the NFL level. However, Stuckey had 35 catches last year as a slot receiver and Clowney has a killer twitter page. One of these three receivers, as well as the plethora of others that are at camp will have to distinguish themselves to earn that coveted spot.
The wide receiver position was not addressed in the offseason with the hope that a largely unknown receivers would step up and prove themselves. I believe that the Jets will find a serviceable #2 receiver for this season. However, I think the issue needs to be further addressed next offseason.
TE/FB:
The tight end section is going to be short because Dustin Keller is developing into a top tight end in the league. His better than average speed and size allows him to dominate the center of hte field. With an inexperienced starting QB I believe that Keller will have a monster season and break into the top 5 TE's in the league. Kareem Brown, the former defensive end, will attempt to be the #2 tight end and the Jets leading run blocker at the position.
Tony Richardson will once again return as FB. His lead blocking led Thomas Jones to be the leading rusher in the league last year and is one of the most respected run blockers in the league.
OL:
The offensive line is probably the most solid part of the offensive unit. The line is returning 5 starters who gelled together last year and allowed Thomas Jones to become the leading rusher in the league. D'Brickshaw Ferguson is finally coming into his own and becoming the type of run blocker the Jets knew they were drafting with the 4th pick back in 2006. Next to him, Alan Fanaca has anchored the line and provided stability from the middle. His veteran presence has helped with the development of both Ferguson and Nick Mangold. Nick Mangold, another 2006 draft pick, has grown into a top center in the entire NFL. Taking over for Kevin Mawae in 2006, Mangold has had very few growing pains. The most overlooked member of the OL is right guard Brnadon Moore. Moore has become a very consistent, hard nosed guard who has excelled in run blocking. The Jets managed to retain him in the offseason after almost losing him to free agency. The right tackle position is filled by Damian Woody. Woody was signed by the Jets last year and made a seamless move to right tackle. He has become another good, solid lineman on a line that should help in the development of the young QB's.
The offensive line is the most impressive unit on the team. The line gelled together last year and should form a unit that dominates the opposition. The lack of depth on the OL is a problem and the Jets will have to hope that injuries do not strike this part of the team. If this unit is able to stay intact all year they should, once again, be a top 5 unit in the league.
CB:
The cornerback position should be a strength of the defense this year. Darrelle Revis returns as the top cornerback and will rarely have the all thrown to his side. His ability to limit the oppositions #1 receiver should provide plenty of opportunities for fellow CB's Lito Sheppard and Dwight Lowery to make plays. Sheppard is a new arrival from Philadelphia and should fill in as the #2 CB opposite of Revis. The ball will be thrown to his side plenty and he will have to be ready to make plays. Lowery fills in as the #3 CB after being the #2 most of last season. Despite not having amazing physical tools, Lowery is able to make plays and be a serviceable cornerback. With Revis and Lito in front of him, Lowery s hould be able to perform his duties in the slow CB role well.
S:
The safety position is loaded with talent. Kerry Rhodes, despite a lackluster past year, is returning with a vengeance and is ready to go to his first pro bowl. Rhodes is the best playmaker in the defensive backfield and he hsould be more active in the new Rex Ryan defense. Newly signed from Baltimore, Jim Leonhard enters the season as the other starting safety. Leonhard was a first time starter last season in Baltimore and despite his undersized frame, he came on strong and had a great season. The third safety is Eric Smith. Smith has had a great offseason and Ryan loves what he sees from him. He should be on the field a bunch this season and look for him to become a huge playmaker and maybe even replace Leonhard at some point.
DL:
The defensive line is a fairly strong unit that is anchored in the center by big Kris Jenkins. Jenkins weighs in at around 350 pounds and is one of the top 3-4 DT's in the NFL. He is able to occupy lineman and open up holes for the RB's and other blitzers. Jenkins faded at the end of last season but there are reports that he is ready this season and will be in even better shape. Jenkins is the most important member of the DL and he could be the major factor in determining the success of the team this year. The always solid Shaun Ellis returns to his 3-4 role which he has begun to excel at. Despite the fact that he is not putting up huge sack numbers, Ellis plays a large role against the run and will continue to play well. Marques Douglas enters the season as the biggest question mark at defense. Replacing Kenyon Coleman, Douglas has the size and strength to play DE in Rex Ryan's system. If he is unable to hold on to this role, look for Mike Devito to get some playing time.
LB:
The linebacker position has drastically changed since 2008. 2009 will open up with two starters from last season. Vernon Gholston will be the week 1 starter at one of the two OLB spots. The second year player comes into the season with diminished expectations after a terrible rookie campaign. This year Gholston will get a chance to prove himself as he starts the first 4 games for Calvin Pace, who is facing a drug suspension. If Gholston plays well in the OLB role, it could spell great things for the Jets defense once Pace comes back. Next to Pace/Gholston is newcomer Bart Scott. Coming in from Baltimore, Scott was the Jets biggest addition of the offseason. He is expected to bring tenacity and skill to the LB core which has been missing in recent years. He can cover and rush the passer and should anchor the LB. An overlooked player coming into this year is MLB David Harris. Harris is a great ILB who was derailed by injuries last year and never really got going. I believe that this year is the time when he will step up and prove to the league that he is a pro bowl middle linebacker. Bryan Thomas will line up in the other OLB role. Thomas has a huge contract but has not produced great results. I believe that he could be replaced early if Gholston plays well in his short stint as starter.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Position by Position Overview: RB
As we pull into the beginning of training camp there are a few things to report on the running backs front. Thomas Jones is in camp despite his unhappiness with his contract situation. Leon Washington arrived to camp late by a few hours but only missed the first team meeting and was out there training with the team the first day. Both have expressed unhappiness about their contracts but it appears that Jones has accepted that he is not getting a new one and Leon has some renewed hope that a deal is near.
1. Thomas Jones
2. Leon Washington
3. Shonn Greene
Thomas Jones:
Jones comes into training camp after a career year last season in which he led the AFC in rushing with 1,312 yards. More importantly he became the workhorse back for the Jets and many believe that he was widely underutilized in the later games of last season. Although Jones has crept up to 30 years old (the age of decline for a running back) there is still reason to believe that he can produce his same old solid numbers. He has just under 2,000 rushing attempts for his career which could indicate that he is not quite spent. The only thing that is bothersome about Jones is that he is looking for a new contract. He signed a four year contract two years ago with the money front loaded in the first two years. Jones needs to abide by the contract HE signed and get back on the field.
Jones will once again put up solid numbers. As a prediction I would say somewhere around 1,100 rushing yards and 10 TDs. I believe his numbers will decline from last year a little with such factors as age and Leon Washington's increased role playing a factor.
Leon Washington:
Widely regarded as the most popular Jet, Leon has been looking for a new contract all offseason. However, unlike Jones, Washington greatly deserves a new contract. He has played for about 500,000 every year and has put up numbers that far exceed his paychecks. He is explosive in the open field and is one of the top three most dangerous kick returners in the league. Every time he touches the ball he has the chance to go the distance and look for him to get many more touches this season under Rex Ryan.
Shonn Greene:
Drafted out of Iowa, Shonn Greene is a rookie running back who is going to try to prove that he has the ability to replace Jones as the full time starter. (in a few years) Greene, NJ native, runs hard and will play a large role in the power running offense that the Jets are hoping to establish.
Overall Outlook:
The running backs are the most talented group on the offense and have the chance to do some real damage this season. Look for Leon Washington to get more carries/touches and Thomas Jones to put slightly decreased numbers. However, the thunder/lightening combination of the two should serve the Jets well in 2009
Next up : WRs
1. Thomas Jones
2. Leon Washington
3. Shonn Greene
Thomas Jones:
Jones comes into training camp after a career year last season in which he led the AFC in rushing with 1,312 yards. More importantly he became the workhorse back for the Jets and many believe that he was widely underutilized in the later games of last season. Although Jones has crept up to 30 years old (the age of decline for a running back) there is still reason to believe that he can produce his same old solid numbers. He has just under 2,000 rushing attempts for his career which could indicate that he is not quite spent. The only thing that is bothersome about Jones is that he is looking for a new contract. He signed a four year contract two years ago with the money front loaded in the first two years. Jones needs to abide by the contract HE signed and get back on the field.
Jones will once again put up solid numbers. As a prediction I would say somewhere around 1,100 rushing yards and 10 TDs. I believe his numbers will decline from last year a little with such factors as age and Leon Washington's increased role playing a factor.
Leon Washington:
Widely regarded as the most popular Jet, Leon has been looking for a new contract all offseason. However, unlike Jones, Washington greatly deserves a new contract. He has played for about 500,000 every year and has put up numbers that far exceed his paychecks. He is explosive in the open field and is one of the top three most dangerous kick returners in the league. Every time he touches the ball he has the chance to go the distance and look for him to get many more touches this season under Rex Ryan.
Shonn Greene:
Drafted out of Iowa, Shonn Greene is a rookie running back who is going to try to prove that he has the ability to replace Jones as the full time starter. (in a few years) Greene, NJ native, runs hard and will play a large role in the power running offense that the Jets are hoping to establish.
Overall Outlook:
The running backs are the most talented group on the offense and have the chance to do some real damage this season. Look for Leon Washington to get more carries/touches and Thomas Jones to put slightly decreased numbers. However, the thunder/lightening combination of the two should serve the Jets well in 2009
Next up : WRs
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