New York Jets
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NFL Team Column By Chris Crawford |
New York Jets Stun Chargers: 17-14
The extremely hyped and supposedly always competitive divisional round was a disappointment to most. Many expert analysts predicted this week would be full of close and exciting games, except the game of the New York Jets vs. San Diego Chargers. Most analysts confidently picked the Chargers in a playoff blowout. The Jets thrive on being the underdog because they gladly proved every expert analyst wrong.
1st Quarter
The Jets offense and special teams unit started off the game very slowly. The few times that Mark Sanchez did throw the ball, he had open receivers, but he looked very unsure of himself. In the first quarter rookie QB Mark Sanchez (#6 6-2” 225 lbs) went 0 for 3 with negative 1 yard and missed a few receivers that he could’ve gotten the ball to. The inability to pass the ball also negatively affected the running game. In the 1st quarter the Jets offense only gained 7 total yards and did not have a first down. However, the defense came out, as always, blitzing and confusing the opposing offense. Although it may have seemed like the Chargers were moving the ball with ease, the defense refused to allow them any points in the 1st quarter. The offense of the Chargers did gain a very impressive 109 total yards and controlled the ball for an outstanding 11 minutes and 20 seconds in the first quarter, but the Jets held them, without points. The Jets did not receive any help from the offense in terms of time of possession, but they did catch a break when the usually consistent all-pro kicker Nate Keading missed a 36 yard field goal. Then at the end of the half N. Keading missed another field goal, this one further out from 57 yards. After the missed field goals, the San Diego Chargers had nothing to show for their dominating first half performance and the Jets were still in the game.
2nd Quarter
The Jets came out in the 2nd quarter and had the same lack of offense that they showed in the 1st quarter. They punted on their first possession giving the Chargers even more momentum. The Jets did not stop the Chargers pass game as well as they stopped the run game. RB LaDainian Tomlinson (#21 5-10” 221 lbs) and RB Darren Sproles (#43 5-6” 185 lbs) were not factors in this game, but the multiple weapons in the pass game presented a problem for the Jets. CB Darelle Revis (#24 5-11” 198 lbs) did a very nice job taking whoever he was covering, mostly WR Vincent Jackson (#83 6-5” 230 lbs), out of the game, but the Jets could not handle the rest of the weapons, especially TE Antonio Gates (#85 6-4” 260 lbs). Early in the 2nd quarter QB Phillip Rivers (#17 6-5” 228 lbs) lead the Chargers right down the field, passing the ball to WR Kris Wilson for a 13 yard touchdown and a 7-0 lead. K. Wilson was wide open in the back of the end zone because SS Jim Leonard (#36 5-8” 186 lbs) blitzed and ILB Bart Scott (#56 6-2” 240 lbs) was caught looking in the Chargers back field and didn’t pick up his assignment. The Jets offense did show a little promise getting their first 1st down of the game in the middle of the second quarter. The offense did move the ball a little on that drive, always starting off on 1st down running off tackle to the right. This rushing attack led the Jets into San Diego territory and although they had to punt the ball it was nice to see them move the ball. Slowly, the Jets let M. Sanchez use his arm more and more, but not enough to score points in the 1st half. At half, the Jets offense had just 99 total yards but the defense kept them in this game and the score was 7-0
3rd Quarter
The 3rd quarter came and the Jets offense came out ready to play. The consistently used 1st down off tackle rush to the right and pass as least as possible approach finally worked for the New York Jets. They scored on their first drive of the 3rd quarter, kicker Jay Feely making a 46 yard field goal and making the score 7-3 in favor of the Chargers. Later in the 3rd quarter, Mark Sanchez threw an interception that was partly his fault, partly lack of effort by WR Braylon Edwards (#17 6-3” 215 lbs) and partly a very nice play by CB Quentin Jammer. This interception worried just about every Jet fan wondering if M. Sanchez would have the confidence to come back throwing sharp passes.
The momentum was shifting towards the Chargers and the crowd was loud. At this point in the game, the Chargers moved the ball down into Jets territory and it looked like they would pull ahead to a two possession lead, but the Jets biggest playmaker came up big for them. D. Revis made an amazing interception lying on the ground, preventing Vincent Jackson from catching the ball and preventing the ball from touching the ground. After this interception Phillip Rivers showed his frustration and the Jets were right back in the game and the momentum shifted again. The Jets offense did not take advantage of this turnover, but did take advantage of the next turnover caused by the Jets. Confusion on the offensive side of the ball caused by the Jets defense caused Phillip Rivers to throw another interception, but this time to Jim Leonard, marking the end of the 3rd quarter.
4th Quarter
The Jets took advantage of the great field position and scored on a 2 yard rollout pass by Mark Sanchez to TE Dustin Keller (#81 6-2” 248 lbs). After being dominated most of the game, the Jets finally took the lead 10-7 over the Chargers. The defense forced yet another punt and on the next Jets’ drive RB Shonn Greene (#23 5-11” 226 lbs) plowed over a defender on his way to a 53 yard rushing touchdown, making the score 17-7. This rush was the longest run by a running back in New York Jets’ postseason history. A few drives went by and then N. Keading missed an unheard of 3rd field goal in a game, and this one was 40 yards away. But later in the quarter Phillip Rivers led the Chargers down into Jets territory against the Jets defensive unit that was now focused on playing it safe. However on this drive, frustration was shown by Vincent Jackson when he kicked Jets Head Coach Rex Ryan’s challenge flag off the field, costing the Chargers 15 yards. Besides this mistake, P. Rivers punched the ball in the end zone for a touchdown on a quarterback sneak. The score was now 17-14 and it was a game that could come down to the wire. San Diego Chargers’ punter Mike Scifres kicked a beautiful onside kick, but Jets FS Kerry Rhodes (#25 6-3” 214 lbs) made a great play and punched it out of bounds, giving the Jets the ball.
The Chargers used their timeouts and the Jets drive came down to a 4th and 1 on the Chargers 29 yard line with 1:09 left in the game. Most coaches would choose to kick, but that is not Rex Ryan’s style. He decided to go for it instead of taking the easy 3 points and putting the game on the line with his defense on the field. Ryan’s risk paid off and Thomas Jones ran 2 yards for the 1st down and the game.
Final- Jets 17- Chargers 14.
In this game, the Jets did not panic when they were losing and not getting any offensive production and stuck with their game plan. They ran the ball 37 times and passed the ball 23 times, which has been their offensive game plan this whole season and Jets Offensive Coordinator Brian Schottenheimer deserves credit for sticking with what has worked for them the entire season. Another great game came out of rookie running back Shonn Greene with 23 carries, 128 yards and 1 touchdown. LaDainian Tomlinson was not a factor in this game, which might be the last game of his career in San Diego. It seems that when the scoring is low the Jets will win the game.
The New York Jets are playing the Indianapolis Colts in the 2010 AFC Championship game on Sunday, January 24 at 3 p.m.
Jets “Unchallenged” in 24-14 Win Over Bengals
Reason for article title- Marvin Lewis blows all of the Bengals’ two challenges on two unimportant plays in the 1st half.
Pregame Implications
1. Jets win + Ravens win= Jets play San Diego Chargers
2. Jets win + Patriots win= Jets play Indianapolis Colts
3. Jets lose= Well it’s a playoff game, win or go home!
Special Teams
The New York Jets special teams unit started the game shaky at best. On the opening kickoff they allowed rookie kick returner Bernard Scott (RB #28 5-10” 200 lbs) a 56 yard return into Jets territory. Another problem was presented when Head Coach Rex Ryan and Special Teams Coach Mike Westhoff received news that punter Steve Weatherford wouldn’t be able to play due to an irregular heartbeat. This meant that kicker Jay Feely would be punting in an NFL playoff game, without any punting experience in the NFL or college. However, Feely punted the ball surprisingly well, pinning the Bengals down inside their own 20 yard line 3 times.
Also, the Jets kickoff return game was average as expected, since they lost their dynamic kick returner, Leon Washington (RB #29 6-8” 195 lbs) earlier in the season to a leg injury. Finally, the biggest mistake from the Jets came in the 2nd half of a close game. Jay Feely set up and kicked a 42 yard field goal that split the uprights, but a holding penalty was called on the Jets. So, Feely attempted a 52 yard field goal that again split the uprights, but a false start penalty was called, again taking 3 points off the board for the Jets in a close game. Feely then came out on the next play and punted the ball without putting any points on the board, but pinned the Bengals down inside their own 20 yard line. Could it be that kicker Jay Feely who kicked field goals, punted and kicked kickoffs could actually be the MVP of the game for the Jets?
Offense
With the game time temperature below 20 degrees in Cincinnati, who knew if Mark Sanchez (QB #6 6-2” 225 lbs) would be comfortable throwing the ball or how many balls Rex Ryan and Offensive Coordinator Brian Schottenheimer would actually allow him to throw. As it turns out M. Sanchez seemed very comfortable playing in a cold playoff game as a rookie from Southern California. Although he only threw the ball 15 times in the game, most of those throws were passes right on target and he did not try to force anything. In addition, M. Sanchez’s stats would have been a lot more impressive if Braylon Edwards (WR #17 6-3” 215 lbs) had been able to haul in a perfectly thrown deep TD pass. But not to my surprise, B. Edwards, who is in a contract year; let the ball slip through his hands once again.
On the other hand, every QB in the NFL should be expected to have a great game with the blocking that Sanchez received from his offensive line. The New York Jets offensive line is considered one of the best if not the best in the NFL, consisting of: LT D’Brickashaw Ferguson*, LG Alan Faneca*, C Nick Mangold*, RG Brandon Moore, RT Damien Woody. Sanchez went virtually untouched in this game, but it wasn’t only the quarterback that the offensive line helped in Saturday’s game. The consistent Jets running game had yet another good day, but not from the normal suspect Thomas Jones. The running attack in this game was lead by rookie Shonn Greene (RB #23 5-11” 226 lbs), who became just the 3rd rookie running back since 2000 to run for over 100 yards in a playoff game. Greene rushed for 135 yards and 1 touchdown on 21 carries. Between the holes that the offensive line was opening up for him and his great vision and toughness, Brian Schottenheimer couldn’t go wrong calling a running play.
Another highlight in this Jets offense was the conservative, yet effective play call by offensive coordinator B. Schottenheimer. Schottenheimer would continuously lull the Bengals defense to sleep by pounding the running game play after play and then hit them with a pass play that always seemed to go for a big gain every time. He ran the ball 38 times in this game, compared to 15 passes and he adjusted very well when he realized that a big part of their offense, the wildcat run by Brad Smith, would not be a factor in the game. Finally, another thing that the Jets did well in this game was protect the ball and not allow a single turnover. It was basically, a great all-around physical and smart effort out of the Jets offense.
Defense
The Jets proved to everybody watching the game why they were ranked the number one pass defense and number one overall defense in the league during the regular season. Darrelle Revis* (CB #24 5-11” 198 lbs) shutdown yet another great WR and this was the second game in a row he has taken Chad Ochocinco (WR #85 6-1” 192 lbs) completely out of the game. Although D. Revis had a few penalties that hurt the Jets, he did his job holding C. “Ocho/No Show” to just 28 yards on 2 catches with one of those catches coming while the Jets were in prevent defense. He also had an acrobatic interception in this game, when Carson Palmer (QB #9 6-5” 235 lbs) was trying to force the ball into his number 1 WR, Ochocinco. The Jets’ secondary and cornerbacks opposite D. Revis also had a surprisingly good game, not letting one receiver get over 50 yards, nor letting Palmer hit the Jets with a big play. One of the only real downsides for the Jets in this game was their run defense.
They allowed Bengals' RB Cedric Benson (RB #32 5-11” 225 lbs) 169 yards and 1 touchdown on 21 carries. The Jets had trouble wrapping Benson up behind the line of scrimmage and that could partly be due to the Jets leading tackler David Harris’ ankle injury which prevented him from planting his foot and cutting. The defensive line and blitzing schemes had great penetration, but just couldn’t wrap anyone up behind the line of scrimmage. Also, while watching Calvin Pace, it was extremely noticeable that he had a lot of trouble tackling anyone in this game. When the Bengals got down into Jets territory, the Jets defense was very impressive only allowing 14 points. The frustration that the Jets caused the Bengals’ offense was basically summed up at the end of the game, when C. Ochocinco was shown on the sideline crying on one of his teammate’s shoulder.
A key stat for the New York Jets that most people don’t realize is that they are one of the best teams in the NFL at finishing off the game. When leading by 8 or more points at the end of the 3rd quarter, the Jets have won an NFL’s best 59 straight games.
So with that win, are the Jets now considered a true Super Bowl contender? There are many opinions about this topic, but it seems right now, with the physical running game, offensive line, defense and the smart play of QB Mark Sanchez, the Jets are a team built to win in January and maybe even February. As Rex Ryan said in his post game press conference, “…I don’t care how we got in. I’m just telling you we are going be a tough out.”
With the Jets 24-14 win and the New England Patriots loss to the Baltimore Ravens it is now official that the Jets will go to San Diego to face the San Diego Chargers in the AFC Divisional Round.
Jets Defense Shines, Hope Remands
The Jets defense posted three sacks and three interceptions on way to allowing only three points to Josh Freeman and the Buccaneers. Buccaneers head coach Raheem Morris said after the game, “ This week, I think we played the best defense in the National Football League, and he (Josh Freeman) went out there and they showed him why.” The Jets defense was relentless, never allowing the rookie quarterback to establish any momentum at any point in the game. The defensive line combined for eleven tackles, but it was the pressure they cause that allowed the secondary to intercept three passes, one by Darrel Revis who also added three tackles and a forced fumble continuing his All-Pro campaign.
Offensively the Jets were efficient. No one expected coach Ryan to let Kellen Clemens sling the ball all over the field, but comments made by Clemens after the game easily displayed his distaste, “I’d be lying if I didn’t say I came here with a little higher expectation.” Clemens went 12 for 23 throwing for 111 yards. Thomas Jones had another solid game, rushing just shy of 100 yards while chipping in two touchdowns. The offensive line has started to form a real firm cohesion amongst each other, which sometimes takes years to form. As a team the Jets are the number one rushing team in the league and that’s highly attributed to the offensive line.
Up next for the surging Jets are the Atlanta Falcons who nearly up ended the New Orleans Saints this week. The secondary for the Jets will be challenged with Matt Ryan and company who won earlier this year at the Meadowlands defeating the NY Giants. If the Jets want to further extend their life support the Falcons is a must win game. Ryan is questionable for this game as well as Michael Turner, the falcons’ running back. For the second straight week Mark Sanchez, the Jets rookie quarterback is also questionable. All signs lead to Sanchez starting however. The Jets are in the driver seat, win and your most likely in. Coach Ryan turned forty seven on Sunday, lets see if the Jets can add another gift with a win this week.
Clemens To Start
In a move that has shocked many, NY Jets coach Rex Ryan said Wednesday morning that Kellen Clemens would start Sunday at Tamp Bay. Ryan cites that Mark Sanchez is responding well toward the treatments for his knee, but that this is more of a precautionary measure. Ryan added “ Mark is our future, I will not jeopardize that for one game.”
Some have speculated the move. The Jets are in a situation where not only does every game count, but every snap counts. Cleary without a doubt Sanchez gives the Jets the best opportunity to win. But chew on this, most players have breakout seasons in their walk years, or last years of their contracts. It is inevitable that Clemens will not be back next season. While endorsing Clemens for Sundays tilt, Ryan still added, “Sanchez is our guy, he’s just not where we need him to be physically.” So this could be one of Clemens last chances to show the rest of the league what he is capable of.
This might also be Ryan sending a message to his young gunslinger. Ryan was clearly annoyed after the win over the Bills last week in regards to Sanchez diving for a first down. Whatever the motive the Jets offensive line will need to be assertive for whoever is under center come Sunday, Clemens was sacked three times in his brief playing time last week.
Even After Win, Season Still In Doubt
Fans do not want to hear it, and players will not hear it, but this season is all but over. For the Jets to make the playoffs the football Gods will have to twist fate, and we all know that never happens in New York. The Jets embarked on a deceiving second half of the season with mixed hopes. Win and your in, lose and, well you know the rest. However when you lose games your suppose to win, whatever that means anymore, it’s hard to lobby for your case.
As it stands, the Jets do have a realistic long shot at the playoffs. Notice the prefect on long shot. Standing with a 6-6 record is quite ominous at this point of the season. However heading down south to play the Buccaneers should be a “gimme.” But the two Dolphins games were “gimme’s” and the Bills should have been a clear sweep. That didn’t happen so the Jets find themselves in this perplexing situation. If the Jets had won the “winnable” games, their current record would be 9-3 with the Patriots trailing behind by two games and the Jets having the tie brake because of more divisional wins. But let’s come back to reality and look at the facts. The Jets are still in the hunt. With Help from other teams the Jets could someway find a back way into the playoffs and recent losses by the Patriots over the weekend and Baltimore on Monday night gave the Jets a glimmer of hope.
Mark Sanchez did not practice this past Monday, leaving some to question his status for Sunday; however, all sources say he is a go. His knee has responded well to treatment and his injury was not threatening to begin with. Coach Ryan does not hide his less than enthusiastic support for backup Kellen Clemens so unless the Jets sign a quarterback this week Sanchez will start, if for nothing more than Ryan’s lack of trust in Clemens. Had the Jets been more of a lock for the playoffs maybe Coach Ryan takes a chance with Clemens but with the end of the season seeming more like a crap shot in Vegas, Ryan will place all bets with the young gun slinger.
The Jets have a way about them. You never quite know what you’re going to get. This upcoming game at Tampa should be a tune up for the rest of the season. The favorable weather should benefit the aching veterans and Sanchez’s knee. Remember a few things though. Josh Freeman has become something of a revelation for the Bucs leading hope into the future. With the Jets being 1-3 in “winnable” games this year nothing should be taken for granted though.
Jets Suffer Another Loss, Season On The Line
With the Jets reeling from two straight losses, players remained rather quite on this week’s trip up I-95 as they prepared themselves for they’re second meeting the New England Patriots. In week 2 the Jets escaped with a win and went on to defeat the Tennessee Titans for a quick 3-0 start to the season. Well the mighty have fallen, and fallen hard. Since that 3-0 start the Jets have gone one and five and were facing a Patriots team that had much steam to let off after their crushing loss to the Colts last week.
The game plan was simple, establish the run, and keep pressure off of Mark Sanchez. Neither mission was accomplished, as Sanchez threw for four interceptions. Thomas Jones added hundred yards on the ground, but had no touchdowns and was unable to keep pressure off the Jets rookie quarterback. The Patriots got off to a quick fourteen nothing lead by the end of the first quarter and the Jets looked hopeless until a blocked punt right before the half made the score twenty four to seven and gave false hope to a team that never really seemed focused.
Tom Brady never wavered. He threw for over three hundred yards while adding a touchdown threw the air. What was most shocking was the multiple delays of game penalties that have seem to be commonplace for Brady this season. Randy Moss only had thirty-four yards receiving, but had a goal line touchdown, right in the face of Darrel Revis. Revis and Moss have had a war of words the past few weeks through the media and Moss had the upper hand today.
Looking past this week the Jets sit at four and six. The remainder of this season is not difficult for a team that was 3-0, but that team is no where to be found. They host the Panthers next week, who coming off a tough loss on Thursday night football are poised to steal a win from the Jets who seem to can’t buy win. After that the Jets travel to Buffalo and Tampa Bay respectively, but with the Jets having already loss to Buffalo no games can be taken lightly. The final three games are against Atlanta at home, Indy on the road and the surprisingly strong upstart Bengals.
The Jets have much work ahead of them. But the whole that has been dug may be too deep for any team to climb out of. One thing that we can be sure of is that there will be no stone left un-turned. At the end of the day though, words can only win you but so many games, for the Jets that seems to be about only three.
Jets Midseason Report Card
In order to really grade a team you have to look at the organization from the ground up. Most reports cards simply grade offense, defense and special teams. However, there are so many more avenues to look at. What I have put together is a break down of positions, still rather general but more invasive then the traditional report card.
Front Office A-
Mike Tannenbaum has put together a team that not only could make a long run in the second half, but rather should make a run. When the media of New York proclaimed that a Mike Shanahan type of coach was the only answer he went with his gut, and brought in a loud, brash and simply cocky figure to an organization that has not been known for being a talkative bunch. So for that Mike gets a solid A here. Bringing in Mark Sanchez via Eric Mangini was a very bold move. Although he has become victim to recent struggles this was a solid pick and will pay dividends down the road. Also the additions of Bart Scott, Jim Lenoard and Braylon Edwards could potentially cement his fate as the most aggressive Jets GM, ever.
Quarterbacks B-
Mark Sanchez has been a breathe of fresh air for everyone who bleeds green and white. During the Jets most recent skid his numbers looked more like that of a second day pick, but the way he is doing it is what is most intriguing. It takes players years to command a locker room; he seems to have everyone on board including the fans.
Running Backs C
The Jets running game strung together two back-to-back three hundred plus rushing games, the first team to that. But how much of that was due to the Jets offensive line. Thomas Jones has looked solid of late, but with injury to Leon Washington it is becoming obvious that his days as a feature back are numbered. Shaun Green looks like a stud but has to handle the ball a bit more carefully. That can be worked on; the Jets running game will be fine down the road.
Wide Receivers C+
Fine, a C+ is generous, but all things considered it could be a lot worse. With the addition of Braylon Edwards via Eric Mangini the Jets wide receivers can now be spoken in the same breathe with some of the top receiving corps in the game. The addition of Edwards not only gives Mark Sanchez a prime target, but also now allows his fellow receivers to slide into their proper slots. Jericho Cotchery could be a number one, but is better suited in the two slot crossing the field while David Clowney and company are no doubt no better then complimentary pieces. Dustin Keller continues to impress when incorporated into the offense.
D-Line C-
The defensive line cannot put pressure on the quarterback without assistance from the linebacker corp. and strong defenses put solid pressure with only three and four man pushes. Kris Jenkins loss has not largely been felt yet as the Jets defense had not allowed a one hundred yard rusher till this past weekend against Maurice Jones-Drew.
Linebackers B-
Bart Scott has played as advertised. Ferocious, while running with reckless abandon all over the field making highlight quality plays. David Harris leads the team with tackles as he cements himself as the team’s leader by example. Calvin Pace had a great game against the Oakland Raiders registering three sacks, but since his return from being suspended the Jets have won only one game.
Defensive Backs C-
Jim Leonard has played solid and Darell Revis is putting together an All-Pro campaign, but the rest of the crop has suffered. Kerry Rhodes has played average at best while Lito Sheppard has been a non-factor and Dwight Lowery continues to show he is just merely a nickel back and cannot keep up with NFL quality receivers every down.
Coaching D+
Rex Ryan talks a great game; he builds confidence in his team and the fans, but for some reason has not been able to win the “winnable” games. He has made questionable play calls throughout the season on offense and needs to better equip himself with knowledge of how to run an offense. Mike Westhoff, one of the games best special teams coach has seen spotty play from his players, which was magnified in the Jets second loss to the Dolphins when Ted Ginn ran all over their kickoff.
Jets- C-
As a whole the Jets sit at 4-5, which with all things considered could be much worse. However the Jets have left themselves with a small margin of error. The season is far from over, but a loss to the Patriots in Foxboro could all but cement the Jets fate as another season of watching the post season from home.
WR Braylon Edwards Speeding Into NY
At around 9 AM eastern standard time ESPN NFL analyst Adam Schefter broke news that the Cleveland Browns would be sending disgruntled and fallen out of favor Wide Receiver Braylon Edwards to the New York Jets. In exchange the NY Jets will be parting with special team staple and reserve LB Jason Trusnick, and WR Chansi Stuckey, and a pair of middle round picks were also included.
The trade took place two days after the Jets suffered their first loss of the season to the New Orleans Saints. It should be noted that the Jets had been keeping tabs on the Browns stud receiver since mid July when training camp began. There was no secret that Edwards had wanted out of Cleveland. The Browns used their third pick overall in the 2005 NFL Entry Draft to select Edwards who was rated by many scouts as the clear cut top receiving prospect, but also one of the top prospects over all. During the 2005 and 2006 campaigns he put together 1396 receiving yards to go along with 9 touchdowns. In 2007, his most productive year during his first four full years, Edwards nabbed 1289 yards while boosting 16 touchdowns. 2008 was plagued with numerous dropped passes and many people began to question his overall mindset. He was with Donte Stallworth the night Stallworth got behind the wheel and took the life of a pedestrian, and he was also ticketed for driving 120 mph on a Cleveland highway.
His off the issues aside, Edwards is a tremendous talent, and when you look at what this does to the Jets aerial attack it is easy to see way Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum jumped on the opportunity. The Jets while under Tannenbaum’s reign have been conscience is selecting players whether it is through the NFL draft or free agency, and making sure they were “quality” individuals. Wednesday afternoon when asked about Edwards off the field issues Tannenbaum offered these words, “ We reached out to the league and Steve Yarnell (Vice President of Security) reached out to law enforcement…. We’re comfortable in adding Braylon. We’ll cooperate with all the authorities, but we’re glad he’s here. We did all our due diligence and we’re comfortable adding him to the team”
The departures, Jason Trusnick was an un-drafted linebacker in 2007 coming out of Division 3 Ohio Northern. He has since been a special team ace thriving in Mike Westhoffs scheme. Chansi Stuckey, a 7th round selection for the Jets in 2007 never really panned out the way the team might have hoped for. He showed modest production and caught a touchdown pass from Brett Farve in the first three games of the 2008 season. Both players were favorites of current Cleveland Browns head coach Eric Mangini.
Grading the 2009 NFL Draft
What’s becoming a trend in New York, the Jets once again lived by the drafting theory of quality over quantity. Making the most memorable move of the 2009 draft, the Jets aggressively traded up from the number 17 spot to the fifth overall pick. Swapping a pair of first, and throwing in a 2nd round pick along with quarterback Brent Ratliff, safety Abraham Elam, and defensive end Kenyon Coleman, the Jets rekindled a relationship with former head coach Eric Mangini. On paper, this is a fantastic deal for the Jets considering no future picks were involved. Moving up those pivotal twelve spots, it’s assumed the first and second round picks were going to be included, but the Jets additionally only gave up a quarterback that was never going to see the field, a backup safety, and a mediocre defensive end.
With the 5th overall pick, the Jets then proceeded to draft a new face of the franchise, Mark Sanchez (or I was like to call him Mark “Franchez”). Sanchez instantly provides a spark to arguably the worst quarterback depth chart in the NFL. Though projected starting quarterback and 2006 2nd round draft pick Kellen Clemens might have a batter arm, he lacks the pedigree, charisma, and leadership skills that make Sanchez the special talent that he is. Already in just his few shorts days of wearing the green and white, Sanchez has already thrived in the hasty New York media. Coming from a pro-style system ran at Southern California, it’s not out of the realm for Sanchez to start from opening week, but it’d be wise for the Jets to let him sit and learn the NFL game. Nevertheless, the selection of Sanchez fueled the Jets Nation with excitement as the cornerstone of the franchise is now in place.
After the trade, the Jets were only left with a 3rd, 4th, 6th, and 7th round picks. Again, in the third round, the Mike Tannenbaum drafting strategy holds true. As the clock struck 10 AM eastern time on Sunday morning, the Jets once again traded up. The deal included the jets surrendering a 3rd, 4th, and 7th round picks to Detroit in exchange for the first pick in the 3rd round. With that pick, the Jets selected the bruising, tenacious running back from Iowa, Shonn Greene. With Leon Washington already the future speed back of the team, the Jets felt they needed thunder to pair with lighting. Greene is the epitome of a bruising back. He loves contact, lowers his shoulders, has great vision, is extremely strong, and even has deceptive agility. With the drafting of Greene, it appears Thomas Jones’ days in New York are numbered. Though I expect Jones to stay put this year, it’s likely he’ll be cut next offseason as he’ll save the Jets roughly $5.9 million against the cap. With the other remaining pick in the 6th round, the Jets drafted offensive linemen Matt Slauson from Nebraska.
The Jets draft of 2009 is reminscint of the Jets draft two years ago when the only two selected players were cornerback Darelle Revis and linebacker David Harris. The quality of quantity approach on the defensive end worked out two years ago, and the Jets are hoping to strike gold again in the theory. With the defense set for the next couple of years and the offense coming into place, the Jets, on paper, will have one of the most talented teams in the NFL for years to come.
The 2009 NFL Draft Review: The New York Jets
The New York Jets pulled off one of the most talked about trades and ended up getting one of the most talked about, if not the most talked about, players in the draft in USC quarterback Mark Sanchez. Sanchez was someone that the Jets desperately needed and should be a solid piece for them to build their offense upon. They also got a running back which they may need much more than they originally thought sometime down the road.
The following is a look at the players that the Jets drafted in the 2009 NFL Draft with a final grade on their draft at the end the article.
Mark Sanchez-QB-USC picked 1st (5th)
The Jets traded away several picks and a few players to land in this spot and get Mark Sanchez, the guy that they will stake their future on at the quarterback position for several years to come. He has already become a huge hit in New York but may need some time to develop. However, the Jets don’t have the luxury of having a good veteran so Sanchez may get thrown into the mix right away and this could make or break his career. He is very talented but someone that should be developed and not thrown into the action right away.
Shonn Greene-RB-Iowa picked 3rd (65th)
With Thomas Jones aging and at a possible contract impasse, the Jets went out and did what they had to do in getting a good young running back who could be one of the better running back in the future. While Greene didn’t have a long and productive career in college (being somewhat of a one year wonder) he should be able come in and boost the Jet’s rushing attack. Overall, Greene is a fine player with a great future in the league.
Matt Slauson-OG-Nebraska picked 6th (193rd)
The Jets went for some depth on the offensive line with their final pick in the 2009 NFL Draft. Slauson will be a developmental prospect to start out but he could crack the lineup as a backup in a year or two. This was a smart pick for the Jets and one that might pay off down the road.
Despite the fact the Jets only had three picks, they took care of two huge needs in this draft and this draft should be one that pays dividends for them for several seasons to come
Overall Grade: B+
By Bryan Dietzler
What will the Jets do in the 2009 NFL Draft?
With the NFL Draft only a week away, here is the preview for the New York Jets’ defensive plans. In this preview, you’ll see a list of potential targets for the Jets at each position on the first day of the draft, what projected round they go in, why that player is a good fit, and a couple of sleeper targets that make sense towards the later rounds of the draft.
Defensive End – The Jets aren’t in dire need of a defensive end, but with Shaun Ellis getting up there in age and Kenny Coleman being serviceable, but nothing spectacular, it’s possible the Jets go defensive end early. Head coach Rex Ryan loves the idea of penetrating, versatile defensive ends, so expect him to look towards that style of play.
1. Tyson Jackson, LSU (1st Round) – Jackson is the ideal 3-4 DE leaving the college ranks. He has a great built standing 6’4, 296 pounds, and does an exceptional job clogging blockers. He’s stout against the run and is a powerful end. He doesn’t offer much in pass rushing, but may be the best defensive end in the class in terms of stopping the run.
2. Evander Hood, Missouri (1st – 2nd Round) – Evander Hood, nicknamed Ziggy, played defensive tackle during his career at Missouri. Ziggy has a quick first step, and does a great job penetrating for a 300 pound player. Against the run, he’s best at getting into the backfield where he’s able to use his quick first step. Fits the ideal, versatile defensive end for Ryan’s flexible 3-4 scheme.
3. Jarron Gilbert, San Jose State (2nd Round) – Ever since leaving San Jose State, Gilbert has become a Youtube sensation for jumping out of a pool, but he has other skills. He has a great quick first step, has the frame of a 3-4 DE, has a ton of potential in pass rushing, and has great burst. However, he isn’t stout all the time in the one game, but could be a nice fit to Rex Ryan’s flexible, one-gap 3-4 scheme.
- Late Round Targets – Fili Moala (Southern California) and Mitch King (Iowa)
Nose Tackle – The Jets have a stud nose tackle in last offseason’s acquisition of Kris Jenkins, but behind him, the Jets are paper-thin. Last year, when Jenkins was spelled, the run defense and defensive unit struggled immensely. Wouldn’t be out of the question for the Jets to go nose tackle early, but the value has to be terrific.
1. Ron Brace, Boston College (Late 1st – 2nd Round) – The other Boston College defensive tackle, Ron Brace, simply takes up space. He has staggering size of 6’3, 330 pounds, and is the prototypical nose tackle. He’s stout against the run, clogs blockers, and frees up lanes, but is virtually nonexistent in the pass rush. Would be a nice complement to Jenkins at the nose tackle position.
- Late Round Targets – Terrance Taylor (Michigan), Chris Baker (Hampton), Sammie Lee Hill (Stillman), and Myron Pryor (Kentucky)Outside Linebackers – The Jets already have a ton of money invested into the outside linebacker position, so don’t expect them to pick one early. With last year’s first round pick Vernon Gholston and last year’s free agent signee Calvin Pace, occupying a ton of cap space, the Jets would to be wise to avoid an outside linebacker early. Nevertheless, expect Ryan to continue building his system with late round projects for depth purposes and trade up for players that fall into the third round.
- Late Round Targets – Lawrence Sidbudy (Richmond), Clint Sintim (Virginia), Cody Brown (Connecticut), and Zack Follett (California)
Inside Linebackers – In terms of the starting jobs, the Jets are nearly set at the inside linebacker positions. Ryan signed one of his favorite players from Baltimore this offseason in Bart Scott, and the Jets already have a younger version of him on the roster in David Harris. With the two starters very formidable, don’t expect the Jets to go inside linebacker early in the draft.
- Late Round Targets – Jasper Brinkley (South Carolina), Scott McKillop (Pittsburgh), Josh Mauga (Nevada), Frantz Joseph (Florida Atlantic), and Antonio Appleby (Virginia)
Cornerbacks – The Jets have a young, stud cornerback in Darelle Revis, but opposite him, the position could use a boost. Lowery is slated into the opposing slot, thus, making it a real possibility the Jets can go corner in the first or second round if they like what they see on the board.
1. Malcolm Jenkins, Ohio State (1st Round) – Jenkins is a physical corner that can play at the line or away from his man. Has the recognition and physicality to play in zone, and the cover skills to play in man. Due to his strengths, Jenkins can also play some safety down the road. Jenkins would fit another prototypical Rex Ryan versatile defensive player.
2. Vontae Davis, Illinois (1st Round) – Davis is a physical freak for the corner position. He has terrific strength, has the speed to recover, and does an excellent job in run support. Though he’s a raw player, his physical skills are something Ryan would drool over if he’s able to work with him. Pairing up Revis and Davis could lead the Jets to have the best young corner duo in the NFL.
3. Sean Smith, Utah (2nd Round) – Smith is another corner, safety tweener who fits the mold of a versatile player. He’s flexible in coverage as he can play in man and in zone. He’s not as stout against the run as you’d like, but he’s more of a center fielder if he were to play safety. Another solid role player that feeds into the flexibility preached by Rex Ryan.
- Late Round Targets – Sherrod Martin (Troy), Kevin Barnes (Maryland), Mike Mickens (Cincinnati), and Coye Francies (San Jose State)
Safety – One of the centerpieces of the Jets defense is their safety Kerry Rhodes, and entering the offseason, there was a gap beside him. However, Rex Ryan signed his safety from a year ago, Jim Leonhard, to a contract, so it appears he’ll be the starter alongside Rhodes. Unlikely the Jets go safety early in the draft as they’re pretty set at the position.
- Late Round Targets – Chip Vaughn (Wake Forest), Emanuel Cook (South Carolina), Chris Clemens (Clemson), and Michael Hamlin (Clemson)