Love this dose of reality, and really appreciate the job MM did in FA so that none of the rookies are being counted on to start:
"Rookie adjustments. Just as we all need to guard against reading too much into what Smith does during the spring, before Fitzpatrick truly enters the quarterback competition in training camp, a "grain of salt" approach is also important for observing rookies at this time of year. Besides Williams and Harrison, outside linebacker Lorenzo Mauldin, wide receiver Devin Smith, and quarterback Bryce Petty are getting more thrown on their plate during OTAs. Yes, they all might have looked strong at times during the rookie minicamp, particularly Devin Smith with catching deep balls. That doesn't mean a whole lot now, with the competition level increased. But neither do their expected struggles as they practice alongside NFL veterans for the first time. None of the Jets' rookies are going to be pressed into starting immediately. Remember that. And give them time to develop, regardless of what happens as they work through the ups and downs of their first OTAs."
