Early Jets Thoughts

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about the New York Jets and their prospects heading into this season. Barely two weeks into the preseason, it is simply too early to really know anything about this team. As camp continues, it remains to be see just what type of team we will see in the regular season. Yet, while there isn’t much to learn from these games, we can discuss some of the questions facing Gang Green.
We’ll start with the defense, which looks promising considering the new additions. Of course many teams are optimistic in August, so while we can speculate on the new additions and changes, the real answers won’t appear for a few weeks. That being said, this looks like it should be one hell of a defense. We have some good players on that defensive line, but the pass rush seems to have come under question. With the return of Calvin Pace and the addition of first round pick Quinton Coples, I have a feeling these guys will surprise some people. Less mentioned is the young Aaron Maybin, whose continued blossoming will provide some depth to the pass rush rotation. That said depth is as important as ever today. It all starts up front – if they can’t get a push, nothing else on defense will matter. So long as that line does perform, the secondary looks very strong. Landry and Bell should show why they were brought here, and it goes without saying that we have the best cornerback in the game in Darrell Revis. If Cromartie doesn’t get too distracted with the thought of playing wide receiver and Kyle Wilson can step up in his development, we might have one of the best secondaries in the league.
While the defense looks very promising, there are many more questions on the other side of the ball. Starting up front, the offensive line looks in some parts strong and others questionable. The right side will have to step up in a big way, coming off a disappointing end to last season. They cannot have the breakdowns that so frequently ruined plays before they started during those last few weeks. Nobody has truly stepped up as the second guy on he receiving corps, and a lack of secondary options will hurt Mark Sanchez’s development. He has to perform more steadily in his accuracy and throwing consistency. There were times last year where he was throwing in rhythm – practice rhythm. He would get so used to that practice mindset, throwing in rhythm to receivers that were open in drills but covered in game situations. Mark needs to recognize the defense more readily, and I think he has the ability to do so this year. He can be a sharper quarterback, using his eyes more skillfully. We will learn more as we get into the regular season, but for now I have faith in the team. There is still a lot more to come, so check back to BroadwayJoe.tv for more of my thoughts.
- Joe