Positive Vibes Only
(AP Photo/John Minchillo)
Potential, chemistry, and optimism encapsulate the New York Jets after their mandatory minicamp. General manager Joe Douglas’ rookie class looks talented and ready to contribute. Each player has shown high character and committed to head coach Robert Saleh’s vision.
The Athletic’s Connor Hughes noted that Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner and Garrett Wilson have impressed so far. “Sauce” competed with the starters and made plays. He showed tremendous closing speed and ball skills during a one-on-one with veteran Corey Davis. “Sauce” also took an interception 100 yards for a touchdown.
Hughes also reported that coach Saleh is hesitant to anoint Gardner as the Jets’ number one guy, but if the fourth overall pick in the NFL draft keeps “stacking days,” as Joe Douglas likes to say, there is a strong case that “Sauce” becomes the Jets’ number one cornerback.
Rookie wide receiver Garrett Wilson remained quiet during OTAs but turned some heads at minicamp. Wilson showed impressive body control, leaping ability, and sure hands during 11-on-11 and 7-on7 drills.
Still, he has work to do. The Jets’ offense is more demanding mentally than what Wilson ran at Ohio State, and the learning curve will take time.
However, he is building a good rapport with quarterback Zach Wilson saying, “playing with someone like Zach is super special.” Jet fans are chomping to see the Wilson-to-Wilson connection dominate opposing secondaries.
Moreover, The New York Daily News’ DJ Bien-Aime II reported that Zach Wilson had a solid minicamp, pairing big plays with questionable moments. Wilson showcased his electric arm and quick trigger. Although, for Wilson, that same tendency resulted in turnovers from forcing balls into tight windows.
The more comfortable he gets with offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur’s quarterback-friendly system, which predicates itself on having the quarterback take what the defense gives him, the more efficient the 2021 second-overall pick will play.
Douglas’ first pick as general manager, left tackle Mehki Becton, entered minicamp with many questions about his knee, weight, and desire. Becton did not participate much besides working with the training staff, but he feels confident in his surgically repaired knee.
The “transcendent” left tackle drew the most attention when he wore a shirt saying “Big Bust” circled by words like fat and lazy at his media appearance. Becton must compete with George Fant for the starting left tackle job. Becton appears ready for the challenge, telling the media they will “eat their words.”
It was hard to evaluate the state of the New York Jets’ defense because their practices were without pads. Anyone can look good playing two-hand touch in practice. The real test, for not only the defense, but every player, will come in the August heat and increase as the Jets’ week one tilt with the Baltimore Ravens inches closer.
The biggest takeaway from these last three days is the Jets’ approach and demeanor. Each player is manifesting an improved 2022 season through their words and work. They are confident, not arrogant.
Douglas and Saleh aim to rebrand the Jets and their culture. That dramatic shift starts with the little things like unwavering positivity and an eagerness to grow and learn each day.
An unprecedented optimism has flooded One Jets Drive, and Jets’ fans are itching to watch their team hit the field.
