New York Jets: Trading for Andre Johnson?

June 20, 2014 / Rich Sports Talk / Leave a comment

With Andre Johnson refusing to report in Houston for OTAs, this could give the New

Johnson would be a welcomed addition to the Jets

York Jets a golden opportunity. There have been rumors out of Jets camp that the team is talking to the Texans and trying to bring in Johnson. The problem? It looks like the Texans want Michael Vick in the deal. Vick for Johnson straight up? Sounds like the Jets should pull the trigger.

Sure Andre Johnson may seem selfish by not attending the Texans OTAs, but wouldn’t you if you’ve only made the playoffs twice in your eleven year career? Johnson should be upset. The Texans did not draft a quarterback in the draft, traded their starting one to Oakland, and are telling Johnson that Ryan Fitzpatrick is going to be the starter. Yeah, I can see why Johnson wants out. Who wants to play for an organization that put no effort into improving the quarterback position and doesn’t seem to be putting out a good effort.

Johnson would be a perfect pairing with Eric Decker in New York. Even at 32, Johnson still has blistering speed and is a legitimate number 1 receiver. Add in Decker, Kerley in the slot, and Amaro at tight end and the Jets could have one of the best receiving corps in football. Meanwhile, the Texans would get a dynamic quarterback who could be the final piece to a playoff roster. With the great defense in Houston coupled with the weak AFC South, putting Vick on the Texans would make them a playoff team.
While it may hurt the Jets to trade Vick, the upside of the trade is too great. Geno has looked great in OTAs and the Jets have strongly hinted he will be the starter. With Vicks ever-changing moods and comments in the New York media, it could be the best decision to cut this possible distraction down the road.

The Jets would not have a legitimate backup, but they could possible pick up a veteran if one is cut in training camp. Not to mention Johnson’s presence would help Geno develop. Johnson has some of the best hands in the league while also have the ability to stretch the field, something Gang Green has desperately been lacking for the last two years.

This trade would be a win win for both organizations. The Texans move a disgruntled receiver and get a quarterback that could get them back to the playoffs. The Jets jettison a quarterback who already is clamoring for playing time while getting a big time receiver to help Geno Smith mature as a quarterback. Who knows? Maybe this move will help both teams to reach the playoffs. This is one deal that should be made.

Bargain Hunters: 5 Free Agents Jets should target

June 1, 2014 / Rich Sports Talk / Leave a comment

Vonta Leach FB:
The Jets need a good fullback for their “ground and pound” offense

There is no question that the New York Jets love to run the football. However, in today’s game your more likely to find great fullbacks in a museum exhibit rather than on the field. Vonta Leach is a three-time pro bowler who is not only an excellent blocker but who can also be a great short yardage back. While Tommy Bohanon had an average rookie season, he still struggled at times throughout the season and has a lot to improve on. Bringing in Leach could do two things for Bohanon. Either push him to take the starting job or give him a mentor next season. Leach still has plenty of gas in the tank, and in the right system could be a Pro Bowler once again. Low risk, high reward type of signing.
Jermichael Finley TE:
Working back from a nasty injury Finley could be a solid backup

The Jets may have picked Jace Amaro in the Draft, but still could use some depth at tight end. Jeff Cumberland is a solid backup player but Finley could be a good rotational tight end and help round out the Jets tight ends. While it remains to be seen if he can come back from his injury, the Jets should at least invite him to camp to see what he has. With 20 career touchdown catches and only 27 years old, he could be a steal for the right price. Geno Smith needs weapons and Finley could be a nice piece to New York’s offensive puzzle.

London Fletcher: LB
London Fletcher 1 Father Time 0

I can hear the criticism already. London Fletcher? He’s 39 years old! Why should the Jets pick him up? True he maybe old, but Fletcher can still play. Now I am not saying he should be a full-time starter, but Fletcher could be a great rotational linebacker. The middle linebacking position is thin in terms of depth for the Jets and London Fletcher’s ability to stay healthy, he has not missed a game in over a decade, would make him an excellent backup. Not to mention he’s had over a hundred tackles every year he’s played. He maybe old but he is reliable. Also, Fletcher may not be a game changer on the field, but there is no question that he is a great leader. He could become the voice and general of the Jets defense and whose presence would be more meaningful than his own production.
Asante Samuel CB:
An experienced corner who could push for a starting role

He may be 33, but Samuel still is a solid man coverage corner. In a defense with a lot of questions at corner, it wouldn’t hurt to invite Samuel to camp to try to make the roster. His press cover skills are very good which fits the Rex Ryan defensive mold. He may not find the fountain of youth and be a pro bowler again, but Samuel could be a good number 2 or 3 corner in Ryan’s system. One thing that Samuel still does exceptionally is make plays in the secondary, something Gang Green has severely been lacking.
Jim Leonhard: FS
A reunion in New York

When the Jets released Jim Leonhard two years ago it was because of lingering questions about his health. Two years later Leonhard is available for Rex Ryan to bring back. He may not be an every down starter any more, but Leonhard is a great veteran presence in the secondary. With first round pick Calvin Pryor at strong safety, Leonhard could be a good mentor for Pryor and Antonio Allen. While I do like Antonio Allen, the presence of Jim Leonhard as a rotational player and knowing the ins and outs of Ryan’s defense could make Leonhard a great teacher. As a third safety Leonhard provides good depth in the secondary in case of an injury and can still make plays even with limited snaps on the field. This could be a nice move to get some veteran presence in the secondary.

Report Card: Jets 2014 NFL Draft Grades

May 12, 2014 / Rich Sports Talk / Leave a comment

Calvin Pryor: Round 1
Jets went defense in round one? Is anyone really surprised

And with the 18th pick in the 2014 NFL Draft the New York Jets select…. Calvin Pryor, Safety, University of Louisville. While people may not like this pick because it did not fit the biggest needs on the team, the Jets still needed help in their depleted secondary. Ha Ha Clinton-Dix maybe the more polished prospect at this point, but Pryor’s upside and ability to be a thumper in the run game makes him a perfect fit for Rex’s defense. With the best wideouts and corners off the board, it’s better that the Jets took one of the better players available rather than reaching. Also, this pick helps the cornerback issue because Pryor’s range will help the corners with his coverage over the top. Plus, receivers may think twice coming over the middle knowing the Louisville slugger is patrolling center field. Hey, we’ve seen the Seattle blueprint for big hitting safeties and that’s worked out pretty well for them. Grade: A
Jace Amaro: Round 2
Big target for Geno or Michael

Looks like Geno Smith will finally have a security blanket in 2014. A potential first round prospect picked up in round two, Amaro is a versatile weapon who can lineup all over the field. What he lacks in run blocking, Amaro makes up for with great hands and the ability to get open in space. With tight ends becoming more utilized in passing games anyways, this pick gives the Jets another legitimate weapon on offense and a big target in the middle of the field. Whenever a player is compared to Gronkowski, that usually is a good indication that he makes plays on offense. This could be a steal for the Jets based on Amaro’s versatility. Grade A+
Dexter McDougle: Round 3
Guess third time is not the charm

With two great picks, the Jets stumbled with their third selection. McDougle is the biggest stretch for the Jets in this draft and the big question is why they picked him so early? With a good receiver in Donte Moncrief on the board and a possible starting guard in Gabe Jackson, McDougle looked like a player who would be available later where the Jets had a plethora of late round picks. There were also some other great corner prospects like Pierre Desir that they could have gotten down the line. While he did run a 4.4 40 at his pro day, the problem I have with this pick is the fit. True, he has the speed to play slot corner, but McDougle is better in a zone defensive scheme. His struggles in man coverage in college make it a head scratcher why the Jets wanted him in a defense where corners need to play great man coverage. While I hope to be proven wrong, this pick seems like a mistake. Grade: D+
Jalen Sanders: Round 4
Another head scratcher

Finally, the Jets took a receiver! Problem is it didn’t make a lot of sense. At 5’9 with very good speed, Sanders seems to be destined for special teams and a slot receiver. Problem? Jeremy Kerley has already established himself as a very good slot receiver. With Kerley ahead on the depth chart the only reason this pick makes some sense is because Kerley is an upcoming free agent and the Jets wanted a backup plan. While that’s all well and good, Sanders still figures to be at best a fourth receiver this season. He has upside, but this seemed like a stretch where the Jets could have addressed other needs. Grade: C –
Shaq Evans: Round 4
Loading up at receiver

This may be my favorite receiver pick in the draft. Evans is just a solid football player. While he doesn’t have a particular attribute that sets him apart, he is just a consistent receiver who makes catches. He reminds me of another very good Jets wide out, Jerricho Cotchery. He might not be a game changer, but has the upside to be a great number 2 possession receiver who moves the chains and makes critical catches. Evans could be a dark horse to be the Jets #2 receiver for opening day. Grade: A-
Dakota Dozier: Round 4
Small school, big potential

It’s almost appropriate that an offensive linemen has the name Dozier. While he was a very good left tackle at Furman Southern, Dozier has the potential to be a very good guard in the NFL. There’s no question, this guy is a road grater. While he still is a raw player, with the right coaching Dozier could be a starter on the line this season or be groomed into a full-time starter within three years. Worst case scenario for 2014, is that Dozier provides the interior line with depth. With tremendous upside and great run blocking ability, this looks like a match made in heaven for the Jets ground and pound philosophy. At least this means that Vlad Ducasse era is officially over. Jets fans rejoice! Grade:B+

Jeremiah George: Round 5
More depth in the middle

This pick adds some depth to the middle linebackers. If things go right George could be third on the depth chart by the end of camp. While he is undersized, George is a solid run defender. While at times he may get overwhelmed, Ryan is known for either coaching his players up or putting them in the right fit for the defense. It may not be an impact pick, but it still provides depth to a position where the Jets were thin. Grade: B

Brandon Dixon Round 6:
Another piece in the “Seattle Blueprint”

Seattle in New York anyone? This pick just screams Seattle blueprint for a defense. A small school prospect from Northwest Missouri St., Dixon has the size at 5’11 that teams are now looking for. A raw player with huge upside, he may see limited time this season but could eventually be a starter if coached properly down the road. If training camp goes well, Dixon may even push to be the third corner on the depth chart. A pick with a lot of potential, this could be a diamond in the rough that also addresses the woeful depth at corner. Grade B+
Quincy Enunwa: Round 6
More targets more success?

Another receiver? Must be the Jets. Though he may be a sixth round pick, Enunwa maybe pushing not only for a spot on the roster, but pushing Stephen Hill out-of-town. At 6’2 and 225, Enunwa is a great fit in the Jets west coast offense as a Z or X receiver. If he can work on his hands, Enunwa is a good route runner and can be another reliable target. While he lacks the elite speed as a wideout, like Evans he could be a solid possession receiver that at least provides depth. However, as a sixth round pick on a team now filled with receivers, Enunwa will have to have a strong camp to avoid the practice squad or worse the unemployment line. Grade: B
Round 6: Ik Enemkpali
Dark horse pass rusher?

It’s almost amazing that it took this long for Ryan to draft a defensive lineman. As a defensive end in college, Enemkpali figures to transition to a 3-4 outside linebacker in Ryan’s scheme. While he was a successful bull rusher in college it remains to be seen whether or not he can develop into a standup pass rusher. With Calvin Pace still on the team, it could give Enemkpali time to develop. However, I do not see him making the roster this year and he must perform well enough to make practice squad. With their scheme, Michael Sam would have been a better fit here. Grade: C
Tajh Boyd: Round 6
From son to father

You just knew that the Jets would draft someone from Clemson. With Rex’s son on the team, you just knew that Ryan would find at least one or two players he liked. With the quarterback battle between Smith and Vick, the Jets will now have a battle for the third quarterback spot between Simms and Boyd. Boyd was a dynamic playmaking quarterback in college but the question was could he be consistent enough in the pros? Hopefully he can develop and become the backup after Michael Vick leaves. It will be interesting if the will use him as an offensive weapon and possible try him out as a receiver Good pick for depth, but think Daniel McCullers could have been a steal to beef up the interior D-line. Grade: B-
Trevor Reiley: Round 7
The Diamond in the rough for the Jets

This maybe my favorite pick in the draft. I love this kid. The Jets stole Reiley in the seventh round and have a player who not only could make the opening day roster, but could become a very good starter in a short time. While he maybe 26, Reiley is a solid football player with a motor that does not quit. While he can be a pass rushing 3-4 outside linebacker, Reiley has the versatility to lineup all over the field. A competitive and hard as nails linebacker, he just screams Rex Ryan football player. He may not be the most athletic player on the field, but with his motor and football savvy Reiley could be a player teams will look back at and say why the heck did we not draft this kid? A player with versatility and who can impact special teams, this could be a great steal that the Jets have made. Grade A-
Final grade: B+: While the Jets may not have come away with an elite corner or big time receiver in this draft, they did get solid football players and provided much-needed depth to a roster that was incredibly thin. While I would have liked to see the Jets move up a few times to get a receiver or corner, they had a solid draft and clearly have a plan going forward. Despite the McDougle reach and waiting to the fourth round to address the wide out position, the Jets had a great draft and grabbed players in the later rounds with tremendous upside. While Pryor and Amaro will make instant impacts, this could be a draft where the impact will not be fully realized until 2 or 3 years down the road. Some people may not agree, but the Jets made the most selections in 2014. More picks, more chances for diamonds in the rough.

Michael Vick From Eight to Great?

April 28, 2014 / Rich Sports Talk / Leave a comment

Mystery solved! Today Michael Vick announced that he will wear the number 8 for the Jets next season. With Geno Smith already owning number 7 on the Jets, Vick has said that he choose the number 8 as tribute to one of his favorite players, Hall of Famer Steve Young. Vick has lofty expectations, and sounds like he believes that not only he will beat out Geno Smith in training camp, but get the Jets to the Super Bowl. He posted “I want to see everybody in there MV8 jerseys this year. I appreciate all the fans that helped. Fresh start..new me! #JetsNation #GangGreen #V8”. While his confidence is there, Vick still has a one way to go before the season. Even if he doesn’t beat out smith for the starting job, he has put himself in the perfect position to become the newest spokesman for V8. Will 8 be great? The Jets sure hope so.

Barr Hopping: Should the Jets trade up?

April 16, 2014 / Rich Sports Talk / Leave a comment

Would Barr be worth trading up for?

With less than a month to go before the NFL Draft, the New York Jets are preparing to find the pieces to get Gang Green back into the postseason. With a slew of Draft picks in a loaded draft, it looks like the Jets maybe able to do just that. While most people think the Jets should stay put with the 18th pick and select an offensive prospect, one intriguing possibility is trading up for one of the best defensive players in the draft.

There is no question that the Jets need offensive weapons. However, if they are able to sign Chris Johnson they may want to reconsider the top of their draft board. While wide receiver and tight end are vital needs for this team, the good news is that this draft is loaded at those positions with talented players being available in the second and third rounds. With that in mind, one player the Jets should consider trading up for is outside line back Anthony Barr. I know I know, the Jets need offensive pieces and help in the secondary. Why trade up? For starters this draft is loaded with talented corners and safeties that will be available from rounds 3-5, where the Jets have an abundance of picks. Using rounds 2-3 to address the offense, if the Jets can trade later draft picks or future picks to move up, it would be smart.

Of course the price has to be right, but if the Jets don’t give up too many picks, Barr would be perfect in green. As a pass rushing 3-4 outside linebacker, he could provide the dynamic speed pass rusher the Jets have been looking for. With the potential for double-digit sacks as a rookie and being compared to Demarcus Ware in terms of pass rushing, it’s clear that his presence in New York could be huge. The best way to help their depleted secondary could be by addressing the fronts seven. Passes can’t be completed when the quarterback is on the turf. With his flexibility to line up in different positions, Barr could make the Jets front seven one of if not the best unit in the league. Can you imagine the Jets stout defensive line with Coples and Barr as edge rushers? Talk about a nightmare for Tom Brady! If the Jets can make this deal a reality, Barr could become a dynamic playmaker for the Jets prolific defense.

New York Jets Mock Draft (3.0)

March 26, 2014 / Rich Sports Talk / Leave a comment

Round 1: Brandin Cooks WR Oregon St.

The home run threat the Jets have been looking for

Even after signing wide receiver Eric Decker earlier this offseason the Jets still desperately need play makers at the receiver position. To complement the big bodied possession receiver in Decker, Cooks would be an excellent yin to Decker’s yang. What he may lack in size at 5’10, Cooks makes up for with blistering speed and great hands. With the Jets probably missing out on Desean Jackson, Cooks could be a game breaker from game one. With his 4.33 40 yard dash and pro day still ahead, Cooks keeps shooting up draft boards. He may not be a physical receiver, but his speed and ability to make plays in space could give Gang Green a great offensive playmaker.

Round 2: Troy Niklas TE Notre Dame

A solid all around tight end who could start from day 1

Even with Jeff Cumberland returning to New York, the Jets still need an upgrade at tight end. While he may not be the most explosive tight end in this draft, Niklas is a well rounded tight end. True, he doesn’t have game breaking speed, but he has soft hands and at 6’6 is a big target in the red zone or on third down. Plus, he’s a very good blocker which is important for a team that runs the ball as much as the Jets. Niklas has all the tools to be an opening day starter for the Jets in 2014.

Round 3: Cyril Richardson OG Baylor

Some more power for the power run

I can already here the complaints about this one. Why do the Jets need an offensive guard in round 3? Didn’t they just sign Willie Colon? Colon did resign, but only for one year and there are still questions about the offensive line. What was once a great strength is now a huge question mark for the Jets. Ferguson and Mangold did not look like their former pro bowl selves last season. To help sure up the offensive line the Jets should bring in Richardson who is a run blocking road grater at 329 pounds. Not only can he pave the way in the running game, but Richardson has great feet and is a solid pass protector. Richardson could be the Jets guard for the next 10 seasons and help bring stability back to a depleted offensive line.

Round 4: Terrance Brooks FS Florida St.

A ball hawking safety Rex Ryan has been waiting for

With three forth round picks the Jets can take advantage of this extremely deep draft class. First, Brooks would be a welcomed addition to the depleted secondary. A well balanced safety who was plagued by inconsistency, Brooks has the talent to be an effective safety in the NFL. While he may not be a playmaker in the back end, he does have a good nose for the ball and has great athleticism. Considered a hybrid safety, his flexibility will play well in Rex Ryan’s defense where players must be flexible and are asked to lineup in different positions. A possible starter in the making, Brooks represents great value here in the early fourth round.

Round 4: Stanley Jean-Baptiste CB Nebraska

Idzik struck out in free agency, he needs to hit a home run in draft

If the Jets mishandled anything this offseason, there is no question that it was the cornerback position. After losing Cromartie and failing to sign top free agents, what was once a strength of the defense is now a liability. However, if the “Seattle Method” has taught us anything is that good corners can be found in the late rounds. At 6’3, Jean-Baptiste has the ideal size and strength to play man coverage in Ryan’s physical defense. While he maybe raw and require some development, Jean-Baptiste could develop into a very good corner for Gang Green.

Round 4: Dri Archer RB Kent St.

The next Leon Washington?

Don’t let the size fool you. At 5’8 what Archer lacks in size he makes up for in blistering speed. With a sensational 4.26 40 at the combine, Archer is the faster player in the upcoming draft. Despite not being an every down back in the NFL, Archer could be a dangerous weapon as a slot receiver or with limited snaps in the backfield. Even in the passing game, Archer could be a great weapon on screen plays. Even if he isn’t an impact on offense right away, Archer would be a dangerous return man and give the Jets a great returner with the absence of Josh Cribbs.

Round 5: Ronald Powell OLB Florida

After injuries in college Powell is hungry

A tweener linebacker and defensive end, Powell could be a good project for Rex Ryan. With Calvin Pace getting long in the tooth Powell could become a great backup or role player in 2014. With and ACL injury in 2012, there are red flags in terms of health, but in round five Powell would be a good value pick to at least add depth at the outside linebacking position.

Round 6: Cody Latimer WR Indiana

Another receiver to add some depth.

After a great college career, Latimer’s size and leaping ability are a lethal combination. May not be a contributor every down, but would provide great depth a receiver and become a reliable red zone target. Could excel in a limited role.

Round 6: Reggie Jordan TE Missouri Western

A project at tight end

Jordan has all the physical tools to play the position but not the refinement. Despite running poor routes and trouble with his weight, Jordan has an ability to make plays and could develop well. As the third tight end or practice squad could become an effective role player down the road.

Round 6: Larry Webster DE Bloomsburg

Small school, big potential

At 6’6 252 pounds, Webster is an athletic specimen. Despite playing at a small school his rare athleticism could translate into a very effective speed edge rusher. If the Jets can develop him he could be a very good answer for the lacking pass rush they have had. If that doesn’t work out, he has all the tools to be an effective tight end and the Jets could mold him into a tight end. Either way he could be a vital backup or practice squad player that could develop into a great future Jet.

Round 7: Walk Aikens CB Liberty

Some more depth at corner

Aikens is another big physical corner who thrives in man to man press coverage. He fits the Jets man cornerback prototype and has good size at 6’1. Seattle loves big corners, its time for the Jets to follow a similar model. Aikens would be competing for a backup role and would be perfect for the depleted cornerback depth. What do you think? Do you guys agree? Who should the Jets draft in 2014? Comment below!

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