Jets camp News 8/3

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How Jets' Lorenzo Mauldin bulked up, prepared to do more than just pass rush

Lorenzo Mauldin
Lorenzo Mauldin is entering his second NFL season. (AP Photo | Bill Wippert)
Darryl Slater | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com By Darryl Slater | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com
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on August 02, 2016 at 7:00 AM, updated August 02, 2016 at 7:05 AM




FLORHAM PARK — It is still early in Jets training camp, as they'll hold their fifth practice Tuesday. And while one outside linebacker spot is uncertain (with rookie Jordan Jenkins as the early favorite to start), the other job belongs to Lorenzo Mauldin, who was a pass rushing specialist as a rookie last season.

Mauldin, a former third-round draft pick, did a couple things this offseason to make sure he'd be a solid run defender and edge setter in 2016, when the Jets start fresh at both outside linebacker spots. It remains to be seen how this preparation will pay off, but Mauldin feels confident after putting in the work.


4 big takeaways from Jets' first 4 camp days
First, he gained weight. He entered last season at 252 pounds, and was between 250 and 255 all year. The Jets' coaches wanted him to gain about 10 pounds in the winter, so he began spring practices at 265, which remains his current weight.

"Now, I feel like I'm more stout in the run game," he told NJ Advance Media. "I still feel the same with my speed, fast enough to cover a tight end, cover a running back, slot receiver."

Even though Mauldin has minimal game experience dropping into pass coverage, he has no doubt that he'll be able to do it.

"I feel much more comfortable now," he said. "I know all the plays. It's second nature to me now. Being able to drop into coverage is easy. The coverage stuff is easy now."



Last season, when he primarily played in second-and-long and third-down situations, he knew teams likely would pass the ball. So he just had to worry about rushing the quarterback. He finished the year with four sacks.

"I would come out and I would always have to just go straight," he said. "I only dropped probably once or twice."

Something else he didn't have to do often — stop the run and set the edge. That involves reading pre-snap run/pass keys.

"One of the things I had to work on in the spring was to read run first, instead of just dropping back, because if I drop back, then the edge is gone," Mauldin said. "I worked hard on that. I've learned to do that."

During the break between June minicamp and training camp, Mauldin said he focused his training on reading run/pass keys and setting the edge. He knew this was something he absolutely had to work on.

Before the snap, an outside linebacker like Mauldin must watch how the backfield is set up, and also watch the offensive linemen in their stances (including right after the snap), in order to diagnose if a play is a run or pass.

These are the split-second decisions — and the ability to physically react to them — that separate great outside linebackers from average ones.

Mauldin's goals for 2016, as he debuts as a full-time starter?

"Just work my butt off and hope for a Pro Bowl," he said.

Darryl Slater may be reached at dslater@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @DarrylSlater. Find NJ.com Jets on Facebook.

 

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Jets' Buster Skrine: 'We want to win a Super Bowl'


Jets‬ Q&A: Is Jalin Marshall going to make the roster?
Connor Hughes | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com By Connor Hughes | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com
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on August 02, 2016 at 7:00 AM, updated August 02, 2016 at 8:18 AM





FLORHAM PARK- Buster Skrine has never played in a playoff game. Not during his four years with the Cleveland Browns, nor during his first and only season with the Jets.

For that, few could blame New York's nickel corner if his goal for this year was to simply continue playing into January. Heck, that would be an accomplishment for the Jets, too, who have watched the playoffs from home the last half decade.

But Skrine and the Jets don't want the playoffs. Well, not only the playoffs. See, their sights are set a bit higher.


4 big takeaways from Jets' first 4 camp days
"We want to win a Super Bowl," Skrine told NJ Advance Media last week. "That's our goal. We come to practice each day because everyone wants to win a Super Bowl."

Gang Green came within spitting distance of the postseason a year ago. Having finished 2015 with an impressive 10-6 mark, tiebreakers kept the Jets home. But while for many a six-win improvement from a 4-12 record the year prior would be marked as a success, the manner in which the Jets' season came to a close may be why it stings all when brought up.

Facing a win-and-in situation Week 17, New York lost to the Buffalo Bills, who were playing for nothing, 22-17.

"We were plays away last year... plays away," Skrine said. "We want to build off of that and be a better team. We definitely want to go to the playoffs, but that's not it."

It may have taken until the final minute to make it happen, but near every Jets starter from last year has returned to make another run in 2016. Following the re-signing of quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, on offense, just running back Matt Forte (replacing Chris Ivory) and offensive tackle Ryan Clady (replacing D'Brickashaw Ferguson) are new. After bringing back Muhammad Wilkerson, on defense, Skrine himself is replacing Antonio Cromartie, linebacker Erin Henderson steps in for Demario Davis and Steve McLendon takes over at nose tackle for Damon Harrison.



That's five new faces... and 17 returning. The strong carryover is a unicorn in today's ever-changing NFL.

Will that be enough to get New York over the hump? Skrine seems to think so.




"I'm just glad our guys are back," Skrine said. "We're the same team. We've got the same people back... We're just trying to get the bond back, get rolling again and pick up right where we left off."

Connor Hughes may be reached at chughes@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @Connor_J_Hughes. Find NJ.com Jets on Facebook.

 

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How Jets' Brandon Marshall helped Jace Amaro change his catching technique


Darryl Slater | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com By Darryl Slater | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com
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on August 02, 2016 at 6:30 AM, updated August 02, 2016 at 7:50 AM





FLORHAM PARK — Every morning, in the weeks leading up to Jets training camp, tight end Jace Amaro walked into his parents' back yard in San Antonio.

He set up a Jugs machine and stood in front of it. Then one of his family members — his father or even one of his sisters — spent the next hour feeding footballs into the machine.


4 big takeaways from Jets' first 4 camp days
One by one, the balls zipped toward Amaro, who framed his hands in a triangle well before each ball arrived — just like teammate Brandon Marshall had shown him. Three hundred balls every morning, and sometimes again at night. Since February, Amaro estimated he has caught 10,000 to 15,000 balls.

Amaro wants to be an important part of the Jets' offense this season, his third in the NFL. A former second-round draft pick, Amaro missed last year with a shoulder injury, after he struggled with drops during his rookie season in 2014.

With Marshall and fellow wide receiver Eric Decker getting so many targets in the Jets' offense, Amaro knows he'll have to run block well in order to play. But he also knows he can — and must — catch the ball better than he did as a rookie.

Throughout high school and college, Amaro never paid much attention to catching technique, even though he was a prolific pass catcher at Texas Tech.

"I guess I just kind of athlete'd it," he told NJ Advance Media after a recent training camp practice.

Then came his uneven 2014 season, when he was targeted 53 times and caught 38 passes for 345 yards and two touchdowns.

Amaro understood the general "triangle" principle of catching — use the thumb and pointer finger of each hand to form a triangular frame. But he used to not bring his hands together in a triangle until the ball sailed toward him. In the NFL, Amaro learned, this was not a reliable enough technique for him.

When the Jets began offseason workouts in April, Amaro spoke with Marshall. Amaro often asks Marshall questions. One day, they got to talking about Marshall's catching technique. Marshall told Amaro that he likes to form the triangle well before the ball arrives — and punch toward the ball with the triangular frame, for stability. Amaro, who admired Marshall's success last year, wanted to try this.




"I always used to close in on the ball with my hands, rather than bringing them tight and holding them in there, and then getting the ball," Amaro said. "So if you're trying to catch the ball with your hands coming in, rather than punching it, it's a little bit easier for the ball just to slip right through your hands. I was waiting for the ball to get there, rather than [forming the] initial triangle and punching at the ball. That's something I feel like I can be a lot better at."

Between his time at his family's home to the Jets' spring practices to working out with his trainer in Texas, Amaro made this catching technique his routine. He resolved to catch 300 to 400 balls a day, to train his eyes and hands. He caught balls at different angles, to prepare for every potential game situation.

Even still, after camp practices, Amaro spends a few minutes on the Jugs machine. Though it's early, his work is paying off so far. Already in camp, four practices in, he has made a couple pretty catches — a diving grab along the sideline, and an outstretched catch in the back corner of the end zone.

Amaro tried to make this technique adjustment as simple as possible for himself — and it now feels natural.



"If you're trying to catch a fish [with your hands], you're not going to catch a fish clapping at it," Amaro said. "You're going to catch a fish holding [your hands like a] net and then bringing it in, closing your hands.

"That's something one of my trainers told me. That's something I kept in mind. I'm doing a lot better out here. I feel like I've been catching the ball really well, a lot better. I just feel a lot smoother. I'm not really worried about that part."

Run blocking — something he rarely did in college — remains Amaro's biggest hurdle to playing a lot. If he can't run block, he won't get on the field enough to showcase his improved hands. Because he missed all of last season, he hasn't practiced in pads since early in last year's training camp. So he's just getting back into the swing of real run blocking.

"Obviously, if I want to play, I can't just catch the ball," Amaro said. "I've got to be able to do both. If I'm able to do both, I feel like I fit right in with this team. I feel like I'm strong enough and big enough to be able to block anybody out here."

Darryl Slater may be reached at dslater@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @DarrylSlater. Find NJ.com Jets on Facebook.

 

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Jets WR Kyle Williams overcomes hurt and hate, finds paradise in Jersey


FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- Moments before the start of the New York Jets' first training camp practice, wide receiver Kyle Williams walked over to Todd Bowles and shared a few words from the heart.

"This," Williams told the coach, "is the best place to be in the world right now."

In the middle of New Jersey, sweating on a brutally hot summer day? Really?

For a player who spent 42 of the last 48 months rehabbing major injuries, who endured the worst kind of fan reaction after fumbling two punt returns in the 2011 NFC Championship Game, and whose NFL stature fell so far that he was reduced to auditioning at a college quarterback's private workout ... well, New Jersey looks and feels better than the finest beach in Hawaii or the most breathtaking mountain in the Rockies.

"After you've had all the injuries, you feel so much more grateful to be out here," Williams said after a recent practice. "You cherish it. You start to appreciate it -- literally -- every time you come out here because it could be your last time."

Williams has experienced a few last times in his career, but he keeps coming back.


Kyle Williams, who spent 42 of the last 48 months rehabbing major injuries, is cherishing the opportunity to be in camp with the Jets. Jeff Lewis/Icon SMI
In 2012, his third season with the San Francisco 49ers, he tore an ACL. A year later, with the Kansas City Chiefs, he did it again. The next year, he broke his collarbone and separated a shoulder in the preseason. In 2015, with the Denver Broncos, he ruptured an Achilles tendon on the second day of training camp.

Left knee (twice). Left shoulder. Left Achilles.

Nothing went right.

"A lot of my loved ones had to talk me off the ledge a few times," Williams said. "I was saying, 'I'm done, I'm done,' and they're like, 'You're not done.'"

Even though he needed a pep talk, Williams considers himself a resilient person. He wouldn't have made it this far if he weren't. He has spent more time in the operating room than some cast members on "Grey's Anatomy," and he's only 28 years old.

But nothing cut like the fallout from Jan. 22, 2012.

Returning punts for the 49ers, Williams suffered one of the worst days imaginable on one of the biggest stages. His two fumbles were costly, including one in overtime that set up the winning field goal for the New York Giants, who went on to win the Super Bowl.

The reaction on Twitter was ugly, including death threats to Williams. He played with a banged-up shoulder, subbing for the injured Ted Ginn Jr., but small-minded fans didn't care. They vilified Williams, who handled it remarkably well.

And still does.

"I swear, whenever I tell people about this ... I think they think I'm burying it or something," Williams said, smiling. "Everybody makes a bigger deal about it than I do. The guys in that locker room came to me genuinely and told me they supported me and backed me -- and those are the guys I worried about. They were there for me.

"That whole process taught me a whole lot and I think I grew a lot. The road back from that wasn't easy -- the stuff I had to take wasn't easy -- but I think it molded me in a way that I have to be thankful for it and grateful for it."

Williams has brought that positive attitude to training camp, hoping to capitalize on a long-shot chance that began when he received interest from the Jets in early April. He was in Chicago with his family -- his father, Ken Williams, is the executive vice president of the White Sox -- when he got the call.

He was told to fly to State College, Pennsylvania, for a tryout. As it turned out, he caught passes from Christian Hackenberg during the Penn State quarterback's clandestine, pre-draft workout for the Jets. That led to a non-roster tryout at minicamp, which led to a contract (a one-year deal with no guaranteed money). He has already made a few big plays in training camp, including a hookup with Hackenberg.

"He showed some quickness and he shows some skill, and he looked like a good guy to throw in the mix to compete with these other guys," Bowles said.

Williams' background as a punt and kickoff returner will help his chances. Making the team won't be easy, but his NFL experience (47 career receptions) will help. Teammates have noticed his playmaking ability. His goal is to make a big play every day and, of course, stay healthy.

"It's good not to be home," he said, smiling.

 

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Jets’ Milliner Healthy And Eager To Prove He’s No Bust

Cornerback's Career Has Been Defined By Injuries, But He Hopes To Change All That In 2016
August 2, 2016 7:23 AM


FLORHAM PARK, N.J. (CBSNewYork/AP) — Dee Milliner knows what people are saying about him, and most of it is far from flattering.

Expectations were high for the 2013 first-round draft pick, but injuries have hindered his career and led to some questioning his heart, his ability to stay healthy and garnered plenty of negative reactions from fans and media. The New York Jets cornerback couldn’t disagree more with the doubters.

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“No, I won’t say a bust,” Milliner said after a recent training camp practice. “I ain’t been on the field. Injuries here and there. I’ve just got to stay at it and when the opportunity comes, hopefully I make the best of it.”

MORE: With Monday’s Off Day, Jets’ Forte Gets More Time To Rest Hamstring

This is likely a make-or-break year for Milliner, who could be a free agent after this season since the Jets did not pick up the fifth-year option on his rookie contract.

He has been healthy so far this summer and had a solid offseason, providing a glimmer of hope that perhaps he could make an impact on Todd Bowles’ defense this season.

“It’s just a year that I’ve just got to go out there and play,” Milliner said. “I can’t be injured, can’t be on the sideline. I’ve got to go out there and try to compete for a job.”

Staying on the field has been no easy task for Milliner, who has played in just 21 out of 48 games over his first three NFL seasons.

“I’m trying, I’m trying to do my best,” he said. “I’m praying, hoping that I can stay healthy.”

Milliner tries to laugh off the negative chatter about him and use it as motivation.

“I might be at home, doing something and my brothers might say, ‘Somebody called you a bust,'” he said. “He knows that I’m going to pop (off) the couch and probably go work or something. They take it as a joking matter, but at the same time I take it serious. I just want to be out there and be able to play.”

He came to the Jets as the No. 9 overall pick after a terrific college career at Alabama, where he helped lead the Crimson Tide to two national championships. The laundry list of injuries has been lengthy, though, in a short amount of time.

Milliner started his NFL career slowly during the offseason of his rookie year while recovering from shoulder surgery. In 2014, he suffered a high ankle sprain during training camp and played just three games after tearing the Achilles tendon in his right leg.

He made it back for training camp last summer, but then injured a tendon in his right wrist and needed surgery that kept him out for half the season. When Milliner came back, he was used exclusively on special teams — something that was frustrating at times for him.

“But guys on our team were playing great and making great plays, so you keep those guys out there because they’re doing great things,” he said. “And when I get an opportunity to get out there and do it, or if I can help on special teams, I’ll help them.”

Milliner, whose three career interceptions came when he was a rookie, hasn’t played on defense in a game since tearing his Achilles on October 12, 2014.

“I want to be back out there,” he said, “and get a chance to be on defense and play.”

With Darrelle Revis working his way back from offseason wrist surgery, Milliner has been getting lots of snaps on defense this summer, including with the starters. While Buster Skrine and Marcus Williams are expected to be in the rotation to start opposite Revis, a healthy Milliner could give Bowles something else to consider.

“He’s playing fast, he’s healthy and he’s running around out there,” Bowles said. “I just look forward to him improving.”

Milliner credits taking some yoga classes to improve his flexibility while focusing on getting into even better shape while sticking to a healthy diet.

While watching mostly from the sideline during practices this offseason, Revis has liked what he has seen from Milliner.

“You can tell he’s very motivated this year, and that’s great,” Revis said. “He’s been set back by a lot of injuries throughout his career and now he’s healthy, so it’s good. He’s making a lot of strides.”

Milliner insists he has no doubts about his abilities and believes he can still be a regular NFL starter. He also said he wasn’t angry that the Jets didn’t pick up his fifth-year option, knowing that he hasn’t done much on the field — yet — to warrant faith from the team.

“They took a chance on me as a high pick, so I’ve got to live up to it,” he said. “My expectations are much higher than some things that coaches or players expect of me. I expect the same thing of myself.”

(TM and © Copyright 2016 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2016 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

 

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Jets' Calvin Pryor sets his sights on a Super Bowl

Sep 13, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets safety Calvin Pryor (25) rallies fans against the Cleveland Browns during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Danny Wild-USA TODAY Sports

By: Gary Phillips | 2 hours ago
Calvin Pryor has some set some high standards for the Jets in 2016 season.

The safety, heading into his third year, has never been to the playoffs. However, the 24-year-old has dreams of something far greater than a postseason appearance.


Pryor’s goal is to win a Super Bowl.

“Why wouldn’t it be? That’s what we play for,” he told the New York Daily News. “That’s what we’re out here busting our ass for. Try to go compete in the Super Bowl, and it starts now.”

RELATED:

Need for Speed: Jets' Buster Skrine notes how much faster his team is this year
Pryor’s comments follow those of general manager Mike Maccagnan and head coach Todd Bowles, who have both said 2016 is not playoffs or bust for Gang Green. Pryor though? He said not playing after Week 17 would be a failure.

“In order to get to the Super Bowl you have to get the playoffs,” he said.

With Pryor so focused on a championship, he was asked if the Super Bowl is an obtainable goal for a team that won 10 games in 2015 but failed to make the playoffs.

“Of course,” Pryor said. “I think we have a great football team.”

 

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Ryan Clady feeling 'pressure' as he replaces D'Brickashaw FergusonRyan Clady, D'Brickashaw Ferguson

By: Gary Phillips | 2 hours ago

The left tackle position has been of stability for the Jets the last 10 years.

That was because of D’Brickashaw Ferguson, a man who never missed a snap due to injury during his time with Gang Green. Now Ferguson is retired though, and Ryan Clady has been brought in to take his place.

The former Bronco knows replacing Ferguson will be no short order.

“It puts a lot more pressure on me,” Clady told the New York Daily News. “When my agent originally came to me about the Jets, I’m like, ‘What’s going on with D’Brickashaw?’… I got a lot of respect for him.”

Clady has battled through injuries the past few years. He missed all of 2015 with a torn ACL and, while he started all 16 games in 2014, he played in just two games in 2013.

The Jets are hoping those injuries are behind Clady. With Ferguson gone, they will need the one-time Pro Bowler to return to form.

 

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New York Jets 2016 training camp superlatives[/B


By: Connor Rogers | 3 hours ago
With training camp in full swing, the New York Jets have plenty of players with unique skill sets trying to make the 53 man roster. Who stands out most? Which surprises might make the cut? Let’s break down camp superlative style.

Fastest player: Romar Morris

The rookie out of UNC did not waste much time to show off his wheels, breaking off a long run to close out an early practice. Morris was clocked as a 4.3 runner at his Pro Day and is certainly the fastest player in camp.

Mammoth award: Deon Simon

The second year nose tackle checks in at 6-4, 332 pounds. A former 7th round pick, Simon has a chance to win snaps as a two down run stuffer in the middle similar to Damon ‘Snacks’ Harrison.

Most dominate: Brandon Marshall

To the surprise of absolutely no one, Brandon Marshall is every quarterbacks best friend at camp (and all season). He’s showing the rookie defensive backs life in the NFL is a lot different.

Most likely to make a great first impression: Jordan Jenkins

Penciled in as a rookie starter, a rare move from coach Todd Bowles, Jenkins did not take long to prove why he deserves a look with the first team defense.

Most talkative: Calvin Pryor

Super Bowl? That’s what Calvin Pryor has his eyes on. The enforcer on the back end of the Jets defense is never shy to speak up and could be headed for a Pro Bowl caliber year in 2016.

Teacher’s pet: Jalin Marshall

Ryan Fitzpatrick said ‘the kid from Ohio State’ has been a ‘sponge’ early on in camp. Marshall has impressed early and for an undrafted rookie, there is nothing wrong with doing everything possible to learn from the veteran players.

Most likely to be late to their own wedding: Ryan Fitzpatrick

It took literally the entire offseason, but the Jets starting quarterback is back with the team and ready for the season.

Best hair: Buster Skrine

It looks like Fitzpatrick worked all offseason to top Skrine, but he really didn’t stand a chance.

Most likely to not change at all: Todd Bowles

Never change coach, never change.

***

Connor Rogers is the NFL draft analyst for Jets Wire. He can be reached via Twitter @ConnorJRogers. All of the Jets Wire scouting reports for the NFL draft can be found here.

 

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New York Jets: Early Trouble in the Backfield
by Maurice Moton 3 hours ago Follow @MoeMoton

New York Jets running back Matt Forte tweaked his hamstring before training camp started at the end of July. Should the team worry about the backfield?

Already there’s trouble in the New York Jets backfield. Running back Matt Forte tweaked his hamstring before training camp started last week, per ESPN’s Rich Cimini.

At 30 years old, Forte signed a three-year, $12 million contract with $9 million guaranteed during the offseason, per spotrac.com. The front office doesn’t seem totally comfortable with the back end of the running back stable.


The team released Zac Stacy and signed Bernard Pierce in a corresponding transaction. The latter will serve a two-game suspension to start the season. Bilal Powell should play a huge role in the upcoming season with uncertainties behind him on the depth chart and an older starter in front.

The Jets acquired Forte at a good value considering his ability to find holes in opposing pass defenses as a receiver. Quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick doesn’t throw many deep balls. Without a strong arm, the short passing attack will continue to play an integral part in moving the ball downfield. As a result, it’s important to preserve Forte for the long haul.

Through eight seasons with the Chicago Bears, Forte recorded 4,116 receiving yards. In 2014, he led the team in receptions with102 in total. Beyond the numbers, the veteran running back shows savvy in his blocking assignments and brings an even-keeled attitude to the locker room.

In the latter stages of his career, Forte should average 12-15 carries per game and serve as a tertiary receiver behind wideouts Brandon Marshall and Eric Decker.

Once running back Khiry Robinson recovers from a broken leg, he’ll take on the goal-line and short-yardage carries. As a New Orleans Saints castoff, the Jets hope to see a little Chris Ivory in his play style, but it’s a lofty expectation, especially coming off a significant injury.

Powell will handle most of the carries as training camp progresses through the summer. At the moment, without Forte on the field, the sixth-year running back has looked sharp during practices:

Follow
Brian Costello @BrianCoz
Bilal Powell looks faster. Getting a lot of reps with Forte sidelined #NYJ
3:07 PM - 31 Jul 2016
12 12 Retweets 28 28 likes
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Eric Allen @eallenjets
Calvin Pryor delivers a pop on Powell in run support, but Bilal comes right back and breaks off a long-gainer up the gut in team.
3:08 PM - 31 Jul 2016
7 7 Retweets 16 16 likes

The Jets re-signed Powell to fill in the gaps behind the starter, but he could be in line for a workload increase for the 2016 campaign. Of course, there’s optimism for Forte due to his durability. He’s only missed eight games in eight seasons.

NEXT: New York Jets: 7 Training Camp Battle Projections
After signing defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson and Fitzpatrick, the Jets can certainly explore cheap running back options if there’s concern about Forte heading into his ninth season.

Expect the Jets to become a pass-first team with approximately 25 carries per contest sprinkled in between throws to Marshall, Decker and Forte.

 

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Jets' punting competition a one-man show, but that could change


7:38 PM ET
Rich Cimini
ESPN Staff Writer

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- Tuesday's wake-up call, Day 6 of New York Jets training camp:

What's happening: After a day off, the Jets will be back to the grind at 1:50 p.m. for a padded practice -- the first of five straight days of field work. Welcome to the dog days. The practice is closed to the general public. ESPN will have a strong presence at camp, with "First Take," "NFL Insiders" and "NFL Live" doing shows on the scene.


What's hot: Hopefully it's not raining and they can practice outdoors. It's a better way to evaluate rookie punter Lachlan Edwards, who has demonstrated a big leg. He boomed one the other day that had to be at least five seconds in hang time, drawing applause from the spectators. Edwards, a seventh-round pick from Sam Houston State, was supposed to compete against fellow Australian Tom Hackett in camp, but the Battle from Down Under never materialized. Hackett, an undrafted rookie, was released on the eve of camp. Coach Todd Bowles said Hackett was told he could be re-signed at a later date. Bowles preaches competition, so it's unusual to have a non-competitive position, especially with a rookie. If Edwards keeps booming, there's no reason to change. Maybe the Jets finally have found a big-time punter. ... Defensive end Sheldon Richardson could make his camp debut. He was excused from the first four practices for a personal reason. If he returns, it means the Jets' vaunted defensive line will be one step closer to being whole. Muhammad Wilkerson, who is in the final stages of rehab from a broken leg, remains on the physically-unable-to-perform list. ... Cornerback Darrelle Revis, who did light positional work on Sunday, could step up his regimen as he gets closer to returning from offseason wrist surgery. ... Another non-PUP player on the sideline is running back Matt Forte (hamstring). He still hasn't practiced, not even in positional drills. Forte said he's not concerned. Cornerback Dex McDougle, who is fighting for a roster spot, also is dealing with a hamstring injury.

 

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Top Quotes: #JetsCamp

Posted 56 minutes ago

Eric Allen
Sr. Reporter/Director, Internet Programming
Email @eallenjets On the Inside
12 Sound Bites From Week One of Training Camp


B-Marsh to the Hall?

“I think Brandon Marshall when it’s all said and done is definitely going to be a Hall of Famer,” said NFl Network analyst/HOF Michael Irvin. “Now what would help that be an easier journey for him is what he and I and Fitz and Decker were talking about — let’s go get some playoff wins and hopefully get a Super Bowl ring. Then that solidifies it.”

Enunwa Compared to NBA Great

“He’s a jack of all trades,” said Jets head coach Todd Bowles of Quincy Enunwa. “He’s like the Dennis Rodman on our team. He gets the rebounds, he dives on the floor for loose balls, he does a bunch of things. He can be a wideout, he can be an H, he blocks, he catches, he runs deep, he runs short. He gives us some options on offense when he comes in the game as to how they play him to what we can do.”

Maccagnan’s Progress Report

"For where we want to be, we've made some improvements," said the second-year Jets GM. "But it's definitely a work in progress and we feel that we're heading in the right direction. But we're probably not at the point where ... we still know we have more work to do. And we really have a lot of football to play, to find out really where we're at.”
Forté in Love

"I love it, just going through it in OTAs, seeing the leeway and the versatility you are able to have," Forté said of coordinator Chan Gailey's scheme. "Chan likes to motion running backs out of the backfield, run routes from the backfield, and that's what I'm used to. I think it'll be fun to see it when I practice."


The Dred-hawk

“I think it’s pretty dope. I like to call it a dreaded Mohawk,” said CB Buster Skrine of his ‘do. “ At first, I had a little mohawk or fohawk, and then it got a little higher. When I was in Cleveland I was like, ‘man I’m not cutting my hair anymore,’ so I just dreaded it instead. So now I got the dred-hawk.

The First INT of Camp

"Part of me said, 'Man, I wanted to get that pick,' " said rookie OLB Jordan Jenkins. "Next thing I know, I dived and I caught it. And I was about to stay there on the ground and I looked up and everybody started chasing and I said, 'I'm going to have to run.' "

Need for Speed

“I just want to get better at pass rushing. I had a lot of QB hits last year, but the stat I want to see is sacks," said DE Leonard Williams. "I have to get there that one second faster and that’s what I’ve been working on — getting off the ball faster and getting off my blocker faster.”

Preparing for the Marathon

"It's a lot longer than Ohio State for sure, especially practice-wise," said rookie ILB Darron Lee. "It's maybe not as hard, but it's sure longer so you've got to train yourself mentally for this. Physically you're ready for this, but you've just got to train the mental aspect. And I think that us rookies, we remind each other if anybody gets down on themselves: It's a marathon, not a sprint."


Fitz in Fine Form

“I think he’s looked really good, to be honest with you,” said Decker of the veteran signal caller. “He’s definitely throwing it like he was last year. I’m just impressed. It doesn’t feel like we’ve missed any time from him being gone this offseason, which is nice. I’m excited about what this training camp is going to do for us.”

The Quote Guy

“I’m a quote guy,” said head coach Todd Bowles. “From the people I’ve learned from over the years, Einstein, Socrates, some just ex-football coaches that have played over the years that you’ve stumbled across. Some from baseball quotes, some from basketball, you just look and you learn and you see what applies to what you can fit and use it for.”

Dee’s Confidence

"Yes, I do,” Milliner said when asked if he believes he will start opposite Darrelle Revis. All of us are competing. Everybody goes out there. We're all a brotherhood, all of us will pick each other up and try to stay together and work together."

Camera Shy?
"He's speechless," said Eric Decker of his newborn son during Sunday's media availibility.

 

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Jets should keep all four quarterbacks

by Luis Tirado Jr. 47 minutes ago Follow @LTJ81

As the New York Jets continue training camp, it’s important to realize that in the grand scheme of things, it’s best to keep all four current quarterbacks on the roster for the future.

The New York Jets are in a very interesting situation when it comes to quarterback. They were able to re-sign quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick to have him be their starter this upcoming season while also being a great veteran presence to groom those around him. Quarterback Geno Smith gives the Jets a solid option as a quality backup with starting experience in case he needs to step in and take care of business. For the most part, their starter and backup positions are good heading into 2016.

The past few years, general manager Mike Maccagnan wisely drafted quarterbacks the moment he arrived on the scene. So far, he’s drafted Bryce Petty and Christian Hackenberg with hopes of finally landing a franchise quarterback. One that the Jets haven’t had in a very long time.


So far during training camp, Petty seems to be the odd man out should the Jets decide to stick with just three quarterbacks for the regular season. However, it’s in the best interest of the Jets to keep all four quarterbacks in the grand scheme of things.

For a team with a terrible history of properly developing, training and coaching quarterbacks towards greatness, they need to keep drafting them until they find one worthy of leading this franchise to a championship. It’s not easy but there is no guarantee that either Petty or Hackenberg will be developed towards such a role.


That’s why it’s best to continue developing and drafting quarterbacks as much as possible and eventually having a competition in the future with those ready to take it to the next level.

Fitzpatrick won’t be around forever, but if in 2017 works out as envisioned, the Jets should finally have a real quarterback competition to see who is ready for the most important role on the team.

At this point in time, Petty and Hackenberg simply aren’t starting material just yet but if one of them or even both of them are ready in another year or two, it’s a great situation to be in.

If the Jets keep all four quarterbacks, next year’s training camp, should they keep all of them, would be a great competition to see between Smith, Petty and Hackenberg.

It’s always best to have more options than less as Maccagnan knows if this franchise is to finally be a legitimate contender, they need a consistent franchise quarterback in place like all the other successful teams in the NFL do. The best teams that always make the NFL Playoffs all have one thing in common in that they have an established franchise quarterback leading the charger.


Overall, whether they keep all four on the active roster or stash one on their practice squad, it’s imperative that all four current quarterbacks are kept for the long-term. One never knows what can happen in the future as there is a possibility that Smith, Petty or even Hackenberg could be exactly what the Jets need under center for years to come once it’s time to head in a different direction besides Fitzpatrick.

 

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Jets Activate LG James Carpenter off PUP List
Posted 14 minutes ago

Eric Allen
Sr. Reporter/Director, Internet Programming
Email @eallenjets On the Inside
Veteran Guard Started 16 Games for the Jets in 2015


The Jets activated LG James Carpenter off of the Physically Unable to Perform List, making him eligible to participate in training camp practices.

Slowed by a hamstring injury, Carpenter was replaced by Dakota Dozier at LG for the first four days of camp.

Carpenter, a six-year veteran who started 16 games in his first season with the Jets, was part of an offense that established a franchise record with 5,925 yards. He was a powerful force for a rush unit that finished No. 10 overall and he was also sturdy in pass protection as the Jets were No. 2 in sacks allowed with 22.

 

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Top 5 undrafted free agents to root for at camp
by Steven Blush 38 minutes ago Follow @thestevenblush


The New York Jets are building a winner from within as here are the top five undrafted free agents with a chance to contribute in 2016 and beyond.

The New York Jets and their diehard fan base can now breathe a sigh of relief with the signings of team leaders Ryan Fitzpatrick and Muhammad Wilkerson, and focus on the business at hand — improving on last season’s gut-wrenching 10-6 non-playoff season that ended with a thud on the shores of Lake Erie to their nemesis Rex Ryan’s Buffalo Bills.
RELATED STORY: Jalin Marshall is making some serious noise

Questions remain as the Jets hit the practice field, readying for the 2016 season against their ever-improving AFC East rivals. But one thing is for certain, unlike previous Gang Green regimes, the tandem of general manager Mike Maccagnan and head coach Todd Bowles are quietly stocking the franchise’s once-bereft back end of the roster with young, fast, hungry, high-motor, high-character overachievers.

Naysayers point to mixed reviews of Maccagnan’s 2015 NFL Draft — and one can now question the selections of second-round receiver Devin Smith, fourth-round quarterback Bryce Petty and fifth-round guard Jarvis Harrison. But the team expects big things in 2016 from top pick Leonard Williams, third-round outside linebacker Lorenzo Mauldin and seventh-round nose tackle Deon Simon.

Top NFL franchises excel at finding gem undrafted free agents. This front office think they’ve already produced from 2015 UDFAs a potential NFL starter in outside linebacker Deion Barnes, and see future contributors in inside linebacker Taiwan Jones, tight end Wes Saxton and outside linebacker/fullback Julian Howsare.

One or two of the 2016 players discussed below could possibly make the 53-man roster, but they all have shots to stick on the practice squad, and develop within this organization. But if they don’t make it here, expect to see a few of these names in the future — on any given Sunday.

5. Wide receiver Robby Anderson, Temple

This impressive 6-foot-3, 190-pound wide receiver out of Temple — the alma mater of Bowles and Wilkerson — was projected as a mid-round draft pick after his 70 receptions in 2015.

The Teaneck-born, Ft. Lauderdale native, an electrifying athlete with big-time size and speed, torched Cincinnati Bengals first-round selection William Jackson III of the University of Houston for 12 catches and 150 yards in the American Athletic Conference title game last December.

People talk about Anderson’s tenacity — about how he started as a cornerback at Temple, before running into academic and personal problems, going home to Florida to get his priorities straight, and then returning to Temple with a fresh new attitude as a non-scholarship athlete playing wide receiver — and how all that earned him the unending admiration of his coaches and teammates.

A hamstring issue at this spring’s mini-camp didn’t advance Anderson’s uphill battle to compete for a Gang Green roster spot. He has a legitimate shot, if he can prove himself as a special teams ace and kick return stud.

Critics point to a raw project with the type of rail-thin frame that may not withstand the rigors of the NFL. And they cite that his explosive speed didn’t exactly result in great kick return statistics for the Owls — which is a difficult point to argue with because numbers don’t lie.

Proponents called Anderson one of the college game’s best one-on-one receivers in jump ball situations, and point to his great footwork, football acumen and flashes of big play ability.

In other words, there’s a chance he could be that deep threat that Gang Green’s passing attack has sorely lacked for years.

4. Wide receiver Jalin Marshall, Ohio State

This 5’10”, 200-pound flanker will soon learn if it was a mistake to leave Ohio State with two years of college eligibility remaining, declare for the draft, and then going undrafted.

In 2003, the Middletown High School hero was rated the No. 1 football prospect in the state of Ohio. In 2016, he’s got $12,500 in guaranteed pay to prove his abilities on special teams — and to prove his Big Ten critics wrong.

Suffice it to say, Marshall has a Midwest-sized chip on his shoulder, and has a great deal to prove to the close-knit Columbus crew. But if Maccagnan is correct, this raw, versatile prospect could turn out a better pro than his former Buckeye receiving mate, the heretofore disappointing Devin Smith.

Marshall was the talk of Jets mini-camp with some nice catches from an array of backup quarterbacks. He has a chance to one day fill that RB/WR-hybrid role that Jeremy Kerley, Percy Harvin, etc. never quite lived up to. You can see offensive coordinator Chan Gailey putting the versatile game-breaker into the backfield, taking screen passes and the occasional draw play, a bit like like what he does with the oft-injured Bilal Powell, or what he did in Buffalo with C.J. Spiller.

But after a decade or so of Jets’ punt returners serving as fair-catch machines, Trader Mike has offered college football’s tenth-ranked punt returner at 13.5 per a legitimate chance to contribute in his rookie season.

The final wide receiver roster spot will likely come down to Marshall, the aforementioned Anderson and seventh-round pick, Clemson star Charone Peake.

Marshall had been developing a nice rapport with quarterback Geno Smith; let’s hope Jalin’s Jets career follows a different trajectory.

3. Safety Doug Middleton, Appalachian State

The 6’1″ 210-lb. safety prized for his punishing hits and fiery leadership skills, was the heart and soul of the nation’s 11th-ranked unit in total defense. He is a ball hawk with impressive downfield closing speed, and just seems to make every play in front of him.

The converted cornerback out of Winston-Salem, NC voted All-Sunbelt Conference safety got nominated for the Jim Thorpe Award for best college defensive back, and has been regularly recognized for his devotion to community service, mentoring and counseling at-risk youth.

Immediately after the draft, the Jets scooped up the Appalachian State Mountaineer and gave him their highest UDFA signing bonus ($15,000).

Middleton turned heads at mini-camp, and that was before they put on the pads. He possesses that ferocious train-wrecker mentality, and has a little bit of Calvin “The Louisville Slugger” Pryor in him. He was widely-predicted as a late-round pick, but what scared off a few teams from this projected strong safety was that he’s an average-at-best open-field tackler in need of some real technical development.

Like any free agent, Middleton could get on the field right away if he can establish himself as a balls-to-the-wall special teamer. He’s the type of player this new regime craves. He’s one of those guys with average measurables and off-the-charts immeasurables. Middleton shares many physical attributes and clock-cleaning tendencies with the team’s fourth-round cornerback Juston Burris.

Fan favorite backup strong safety Rontez Miles may now be facing his toughest roster battle.

2. Defensive tackle Helva Matungulu, Western Carolina

As a freshman studying molecular biology, this 6’5’ 290 pound student from Nairobi, Kenya stumbled upon his Western Carolina University football field, and his size caught the attention of the Catamounts coaching staff.

The concept was not entirely foreign to this African national champion rugby player, yet he had never experienced the gridiron before.

During his four years of study in Cullowhee, NC, he developed into a preseason All-Southern Conference selection. Against SEC teams Texas A&M and Tennessee, he decimated his opponents through pure will and athleticism.

Scouts were buzzing over Matungulu’s NFLPA Bowl performance, and Maccagnan and his scouting staff certainly know talent when they see it. They also know, better than anyone, that any player with no red flags and such size and speed (timed at a 5.00 40-yard dash) flashing that coveted combination of explosiveness and athleticism and untapped potential, is worth a flyer on.

This erudite speaker of three tongues (English, French and Swahili) has mad rush-stuffing skills. He has all the makings of a 2016 practice squad warrior, who with his blend of desire, coach-ability and D-line flexibility could thrive at defensive end or defensive tackle in the Bowles/Kacy Rodgers system — not to mention by learning the pro game from lead-by-example future legends Muhammad Wilkerson, Sheldon Richardson and Williams.

Bowles has made it clear that he expects last year’s practice squadder Simon to step in and produce this season. Charley Casserley on the NFL Network said that he thinks Simon could be the next Damon “Snacks” Harrison.

But if Simon doesn’t deliver, he better make way for Helva Kayembe Matungulu, because this young African man is highly motivated — if for no other reason than there’s a big difference between a $3,000 signing bonus and a $450,000 guaranteed contract.


1. Tight end Jason Vander Laan, Ferris State

This tantalizing small-college prospect was a legendary quarterback at Michigan’s Ferris State — the 2014-2015 Division II Scholar-Athlete of the Year and two-time Harlon Hill Award winner, as the best Division II player in the country (the small-college Heisman Trophy).

The 6’4 250-lb. bruiser holds the NCAA career record for most career rushing yards by a quarterback (5,953), and was the first quarterback in NCAA History with both 1,000 yards rushing and passing for four-straight seasons.

Now he is trying to catch on the NFL as a tight end. Who knows what’s gonna happen, but this suburban Chicago kid is one of those fierce all-round athletes who spent the off-season working on his blocking, something he’d never had to do. Vander Laan has impressed Jets’ tight ends coach Jimmie Johnson, who went out of his way to compliment his smooth transition to the tight end position, citing natural receiving skills and dedication to the playbook.

Food for thought: fellow undrafted Harlan Hill Award winner Danny Woodhead rushed for 7,962 for the Chadron State Eagles; rushing-machine Vander Laan led his Ferris State Bulldogs to a 37-9 overall record and two straight Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference titles.

Julian Edelman has credited his success as a wide receiver to having been a college quarterback and understanding both sides of the ball exchange. Not to suggest that he can deliver the goods on a similar level, but Vander Laan has all the makings for that H-back role currently occupied by former general manager John Idzik late-round pick wide receiver Quincy Enunwa.

A year under Gailey’s tutelage might possibly uncover a Gronk-esque open-field matchup nightmare for opposing defensive coordinators for years to come. He certainly can’t be any less productive than 2014 second-rounder Jace Amaro.

This raw NFL project, like all of those discussed, embody why the NFL has expanded practice squads, and how franchises look everywhere to find new talent!

 

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Todd Bowles on why Jets didn't make playoffs in 2015


Connor Hughes | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com By Connor Hughes | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com
Email the author | Follow on Twitter
on August 02, 2016 at 1:11 PM, updated August 02, 2016 at 1:16 PM






It's been a very, very long time since the Jets last made the playoffs. Six years, to be exact.

And Todd Bowles has an idea on why that streak wasn't snapped in 2015.

"I don't think we realized how good we were until three quarters of the way through the season," the Jets head coach said on ESPN's First Take Tuesday. "It was belief and trust. As we got to believe in each other and trust each other, we started playing better on the field

"But at that point it was too late. We'd blown too many ball games."


For all intents and purposes, 2015 was actually a pretty good one for the Jets. After finishing 2014 4-12, New York improved their win total by six games to finish the year 10-6. Wideout Brandon Marshall broke near ever single-season franchise receiving record (catches, yards, touchdowns, 100-yard games), while quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick snapped the Jets single-season record for passing touchdowns.

And that's really just the tip of the iceberg: Running back Chris Ivory led the AFC in rushing yards, wideout Eric Decker also had over 1,000 yards receiving, defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson had a career-high 12 sacks... the list goes on and on.

But for a team playoff-starved, it wasn't enough. And what stings many on the roster the most is the Jets actually controlled their own destiny. But against the Buffalo Bills Week 17, a team playing for nothing, the Jets blew it. The final score? 22-17 in favor of Buffalo.

"They just beat us," Bowles said. "They came out and played better than us. We have no excuses for that. They beat us. Flat out."

With New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady suspended the first four games of this season, there's a very real chance the AFC East could be up for grabs for the first time in a long time. The Jets, Miami Dolphins and Bills are all pretty equal in terms of talent, which means it could come down to the wire once again.

The Jets will, once again, conclude the regular season against the Bills. What's Bowles doing to ensure 2016 doesn't end in the same fashion as 2015?