Jets Minicamp Review

The Jets practiced in front of their fans yesterday at the New Meadowlands for their first time. It was the final minicamp practice for the Jets, who won’t reconvene until training camp in late July.

I was there yesterday and have some thoughts and observations I thought I would share:

• First off the stadium is massive, almost overwhelming. The concourses are much bigger than before. The seats feel like they are closer to the field. However, I would bring my own lunch to the game unless you want to pay $9 for a sausage and peppers or $15 (no joke) for a roast beef sandwich.

• Jim Leonhard, Antonio Cromartie, and Kyle Wilson all took turns at returning punts. Cromartie had a nice grab when he backtracked for one, while Leonhard muffed one.

• In 1-on-1’s Dustin Keller beat Eric Smith at least two times to make some nice grabs. Keller might be in for a breakout season. The only thing that may stop him is that there might not be enough balls to go around for him.

• There were chants of “Please Pay Revis” at least three times during practice. That should give you a picture of whose side the fans are on. Whether or not that happens, is a question for another day.

• In team drills, Sanchez had to run a lap after multiple offensive players jumped offsides. It reminded me of the Mangini days where it seemed like a player was running a lap at all times.

• Brad Smith was getting a lot of reps at quarterback once again. I didn’t see Ainge or O’Connell get take any snaps. Could the Jets be thinking about carrying only 2 quarterbacks, and have Smith as the emergency third option? It’s an interesting option and I wouldn’t be shocked if thats what they did because none of the backup quarterbacks have showed much of anything.

• It was a relaxing day for the defensive line. When there’s no contact, there’s not really much they can do anyway. I spotted the defensive lineman playing hot potato and going out and catching some passes.

• Rex was having some fun with the defense playing scout quarterback in defensive team drills. Everyone was having a good time, showing how much the players love Rex.

• Not really about football, but Braylon Edwards was rocking a legit beard. I hope he keeps it when the HBO camera will be rolling.

Overall it was a great experience. After seeing all the players on the field, I realized how much talent the Jets have on their roster. They are one of the elite teams in the league and should contend for a Super Bowl.