FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- Camping out with the New York Jets ...
What's happening: On Thursday, the Jets will conduct their first practice, starting at 2:20 p.m. ET. The long haul to opening day starts now. The Jets have six weeks to get ready for the Cleveland Browns.
What's hot: We're not talking about the weather (or maybe we are). The most compelling storylines on Day 1 usually focus on positional battles and players returning from injury. Cornerback Dee Milliner (Achilles' tendon) and safety Marcus Gilchrist (shoulder) have been cleared for practice, but it remains to be seen how much they actually participate. Naturally, we'll focus on the quarterback position (Geno Smith versus Ryan Fitzpatrick), but right guard, outside linebacker, safety and running back bear watching, too. ... This will be the fans' first chance to get a good look at the rookie class, featuring Leonard Williams, Devin Smith, Lorenzo Mauldin and Bryce Petty. ... After practice, we'll hear from Sheldon Richardson, who has yet to publicly address his four-game suspension for violating the league's substance-abuse policy. Muhammad Wilkerson will be asked questions about his ongoing contract saga. ... The players will be in "shells," not full pads. The first padded practice is Saturday. That's when the intensity picks up.
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