Despite what Rex Ryan thinks, the New York Jets are not the kings of the Big Apple. That role is currently taken by the New York Football Giants. The Jets have a lot to do this off season before they can be considered true contenders in the AFC again.
The number one talked about name you might hear associated to the Jets this offseason is Peyton Manning. While the Jets are still a long shot to land Manning, the more interesting storyline will be whether or not they make a full out pursuit for his services.
While the Jets are a name attached to Peyton, as of right now that is pure speculation. Should the Jets make their intentions for Manning public it could have a large implications on the future of Mark Sanchez. While most don’t believe Sanchez is the right guy, Rex Ryan claims he will stick by his guy.
The of season is still very fresh and I’m sure this storyline will continue to linger. However the odds are still that Mark Sanchez will be the opening day starter. With that being said, is that the right decision? Sanchez has been criticized throughout his career for everything you can think of: his poor play in the cold, his inability to make big throws, his inconsistent decision making, his photo shoot in GQ, and even eating a hot dog on the sidelines.
That being said let’s not forget that the Jets still have been able to reach two AFC championship games with Mark running the plays.
The bad news for the Jets is though that there is more evidence of Sanchez regressing than of him improving his game. With Mark Burnell as his backup it is unlikely the old man will be able to push Sanchez into maybe getting more out of him. Even if available, Peyton is not expected to land in New York. That leaves the Jets with the burning question of whether or not to draft a QB.
In my humble opinion the fact is the Jets will never be a true Super Bowl contender with Sanchez behind the wheel but Rex is a stubborn man.
The Jets will be looking to upgrade their offense this year and find a complementary receiver to Santonio Holmes. The Jets will probably look to the free agent market to address this need. Plax wasn’t exactly what the Jets were looking for and it is essential the Jets find someone to help spread the field.
This upcoming draft will be interesting for the Jets.
Despite what you might think about the Jets defense because of Ryan, the mean green pass rush last year was very mediocre. Linebacker Bryan Thomas tore his Achilles tendon which could lead to the selection of Melvin Ingram, Courtney Upshaw or Quinton Coples should he drop.
Should the Jets decide to address their receiver needs in the draft the name Michael Floyd makes the most sense to me. Floyd would complement Holmes nicely and I think when Floyd surprises people in the combine he has potential to go around the top 15.
The Jets do have a decent core so spending a first round pick on a QB probably wouldn’t be wise. However names like Kirk Cousins and Nick Foles should definitely be under consideration for the Jets in the 3rd round.
Another interesting route for the Jets could potentially be grabbing Brandon Weeden with their 2nd round pick. Weeden if not for his age (28, three years older than Sanchez) might be the 3rd best QB in this draft and has potential to be a starter from day 1. Weeden would give Sanchez immediate competition and could potentially lead to the Jets getting the best out of one of their two options.
Don’t worry Jets fans no matter how good or bad this off season is and whether you address your needs or not, Rex Ryan will still predict a Super Bowl championship either way.
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