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New York Jets: 4 issues to keep an eye on before training camp
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Training camp is around the corner (Kostroun/AP)
Now that the Offseason Training Activities have come and gone the Jets coaching staff is in the process of preparing for training camp, which begins on July 31st. While the Jets hierarchy reviews the practice tape and puts together their agendas, here are four situations to keep an eye on for the next month.
1) The Leon Washington and Thomas Jones contract situations. Rex Ryan has been adamant about wanting an “all-weather” offense, which will be built around the running game. Well the two major components of the Jets running attack are in the midst of contract disputes with the Jets organization. Leon Washington, the Jets most explosive offensive player, is entering the last year of his rookie contract and is looking for a deal reportedly averaging $6 million a year. If a deal is not in place prior to training camp, there are reports that Washington is willing to hold out. Thomas Jones, the AFC’s leading rusher and vocal locker room leader, is looking to have his contract reworked. Jones is in the third year of a front loaded contract, which alleviates most of his leverage. It would not make sense for Thomas to hold out of training camp but in this day and age you never know with professional athletes.
My prediction is that the Jets will sign Leon Washington to a lucrative deal that will make him a Jet for years to come. As for Thomas Jones I think the Jets will give him some form of a bonus in the form of guaranteed money for this year.
2) The pursuit of a #1 wide receiver. The New York Jets are in desperate need of a proven wide receiver to pair up with Jerricho Cotchery. Will they take a chance on Plaxico Burress? How about making a trade for Braylon Edwards? Or will the team bring in a veteran like Amani Toomer to improve the receiving situation? The one thing that you can take to the bank is that Gang Green is evaluating every opportunity to upgrade the position.
3) The acquisition of a blocking tight end. With the departure of Chris Baker the Jets are very thin when it comes to a tight end that can block. Gang Green re-signed Bubba Franks but he is a band-aid at best when it comes to addressing this situation. The Jets have been creative moving offensive linemen and fullbacks around but at some point a legitimate player should be brought in.
4) The amount of media pressure that will be put on the quarterback competition. The New York media is chomping at the bit to analyze and scrutinize every aspect of the quarterback competition between Mark Sanchez and Kellen Clemens. It will be interesting to see how the players and the head coach handle this.
News and Notes:
The New York Jets have been awarded cornerback Rashad Barksdale off waivers from the New York Giants.
Scout.com is reporting that the Jets have claimed wide receiver Mario Urrutia from the Cincinnati Bengals.
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