Down With the Ship! Will Rex Ryan’s Faith in Geno Smith Cost Him His Job?

September 29, 2014September 29, 2014 / Rich Sports Talk / Leave a comment

When Rex Ryan stood at the podium after another Jets loss this past Sunday, Jets fans were hoping for the words “Vick will start”. Instead they got a coach who dug in his heels for his quarterback and in the process only turned up the heat on his own coaching hot seat. Despite the pleas of “we want Vick” raining down from the Jets fans on Sunday afternoon the Jets head coach once again decided to stick with Geno when in reality Ryan has basically decided to go down with the ship.
“I’m confident in Geno. If Geno is healthy, Geno will start” said Rex in the press conference. Ryan refused to even say if Vick would be considered to play if Smith struggled again. Rex Ryan is without question one of the most player loyal coaches in the NFL. However, this loyalty could be his undoing.

Since John Idzik was announced as the New York Jets general manager Rex Ryan has been on thin ice. Don’t forget, it wasn’t until after the final game last season when it was announced that he would be back as head coach. With Woody Johnson already saying this is a playoff or bust season it is puzzling why Rex Ryan continues to have faith in Geno Smith after his quarterback continues to make big mistakes that have cost the Jets wins. Not to mention Geno appears to be cracking under pressure as he reportedly swore at a fan walking off the field on Sunday.

The worst part of all this? Looking back at these first four games people can make the strong case that the Jets should be 4-0. Instead Smith’s costly turnovers coupled with defensive collapses, a defense which is supposed to be Ryan’s baby, has left the Jets at 1-3.

Momentum is everything in the NFL, and right now Rex is going in the wrong direction. After those back to back AFC Championship appearances in his first two season Ryan has not been back to the playoffs and has a 23- 29 record over his past four seasons. Unless Idzik and Johnson have told Ryan that he is safe past this year, or that the plan is to develop Geno not matter what, then Rex needs to make the playoffs.

Unless Ryan turns the Jets around fast New York could be looking for anew head coach

Let’s not forget outside of defense the Jets offense has been a disaster under Rex’s tenure. Who has Rex Ryan successfully developed as an offensive player? Sanchez? nope. Smith? not yet. What about Hill, Greene, or McKnight? Unfortunately despite Ryan’s great defensive mind he is still a defensive coordinator as a head coach. He refuses to take responsibility for the offense even though a head coach needs to be accountable for all assets of a football team. Can you blame Ryan for the holes in his roster especially at cornerback? No, but the roster has only been part of the problem. Most of the problems are costly penalties and turnovers.

Sure benching Vick could be a blow to Smith’s confidence, but at this point Ryan needs to send a message that if you don’t perform, you don’t play. It’s that simple as a coach if players aren’t performing and there is a talented player on the bench who can help the team’s performance, you have to let that player play. I know, I know, that Vick is no long-term solution, but if the Jets keep falling and are out of playoff contention early, it maybe time for New York to let Ryan walk.

Believe me, I personally love Rex Ryan and think he is a talented coach and a great defensive mind. Still, if he cannot turn this season around and stays with players who are hurting the team’s performance it maybe time for a new coach of the New York Jets.

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.

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!

Let the quarterback controversy begin!

March 21, 2014 / Rich Sports Talk / 1 Comment

Vick a backup or possible starter?

The second Michael Vick put his John Hancock on a Jets contract signaled the beginning of the next great quarterback race for Gang Green. Only this time around, Tim Tebow is nowhere in sight. While Geno Smith is the Jets future and should be the player the Jets should develop, the mere presence of Vick means that the Jets are looking to make the playoffs in 2014. While many believe Vick will accept the backup role and simply mentor the young signal caller, it is clear that he is here for one reason, the chance to start.

Michael Vick is a competitor. If he can beat out Geno Smith and be a starter in this league again he is bound to claim the starting job. While I was never a big fan of bring in Vick, there is no question he will bring significant competition to the Jets quarterback race. Could he start again or even play 16 games? I don’t see it. However, I can see him being a good relief quarterback for Smith or a guy that can make a spot start for the Jets. If anything, his knowledge of Marty Mornhinweg’s system will make Vick a great option should Geno Smith struggle. Can Vick be the quarterback to get the Jets back to the playoffs or will his presence help Geno Smith develop? Only time will tell.

New York Jets Full Mock Draft 2014 (1.0)

January 14, 2014January 14, 2014 / Rich Sports Talk / 5 Comments

Round 1 pick #18 Eric Ebron TE UNC
Geno Smith needs a go to weapon, and Ebron could be the best TE in the draft

The Jets need play makers on offense, especially at tight end. Young quarterbacks need a great tight end in order to develop because they offer a big check down target in the middle of the field. Dustin Keller was Mark Sanchez’s security blanket, it’s time to get Geno Smith his own tight end. Eric Ebron is a great tight end who can easily get open despite his massive size. He works well in the middle with great hands and is an above average run blocker. While he is a versatile player and can line up in the slot, some of the knocks on him is that he still needs to get stronger and run better routes. He would be a great player for the Jets, who are desperate for a playmaking tight end.
Round 2 pick#17: Brandin Cooks WR Oregon St.
Time for some home cooking in the Big Apple

Another weapon for Geno Smith in round 2. With a deep receiver class, the Jets will get a late first round talent in the middle of the second round. Cooks maybe undersized and not a physical receiver, but he makes up for it with his athleticism. He is a great athlete who can make plays and gain multiple yards after the catch. With the Jets lacking explosive weapons in their receiving core, Cooks would give Smith a receiver who can finally stretch the field and make big plays.
Round 3 Pick # 5 Michael Sam DE Mizzou
The Jets need to get younger at outside linebacker

Now Rex Ryan gets to add to the defense. While the Jets front seven is formidable, it’s unlikely the will bring back Calvin Pace who is 33. Instead they will need to find another 3-4 outside linebacker. Sam played defensive end in college, but projects to be a stand up linebacker in the pros. He’s a good pass rusher that plays the run extremely well. While he maybe raw rushing the passer and a bit undersized, he’s a ball hawk with a great motor. Don’t forget the Jets took Sheldon Richardson from Mizzou last year and look how that turned out. The Jets might want to bring in Richardson’s former teammate to help bolster their defense.

Round 3 pick #16 Donte Moncrief WR Ole Miss
Another building block at receiver

In the second round the Jets got Geno Smith a playmaker, now in round three they get him a go to receiver. While Moncrief ‘s speed keeps him from being a first round pick, he would be a steal in round three. He’s a huge receiver who is a matchup nightmare physically for corners. He has great hands and can catch well in traffic. While he may not stretch the field, he could become Geno’s go to target on third down and in the red zone. He would be a nice value pick here.
Round 4 pick # 15 Chris Davis CB Auburn
The Jets finally address the secondary

With the Jets probably releasing Antonio Cromartie, there going to need a late round cornerback. Even if Cro is back for the Jets, there are still many questions about the Jets corners. While Davis may not have the best size or speed, he is a tough football player. He’s great physically in coverage and is a versatile player. He would be a great fit in Ryan’s defense because of his versatility and physicality. He could be a starter or a versatile role player despite being a mid round pick.
Round 5 pick #14 De’Anthony Thomas RB Oregon
Speed kills

Thomas might not be an every down running back in the NFL, but used effectively he could be a great playmaker. He is the most explosive player in terms of raw speed in this class, and could be a huge difference maker. If the Jets use him on screens, special running plays, or as a receiver in space, Thomas could be another weapon for Geno Smith. Worst case scenario he could be a dynamic kick and punt returner for the Jets and give them a deadly special teams weapon.
Round 6 pick# 19 Crockett Gillmore TE Colorado St
The Jets need to add depth to a position with no depth

Many people may ask why would the Jets draft two tight ends? The Jets had no tight end depth last year and need a solid backup for Ebron. While Cumberland is a decent tight end, the Jets should give him some competition. Gillmore is a huge target at 6’6 and could be a big threat in the red zone. While he is a raw prospect that needs to improve his catching and run blocking, Gillmore has rare size for a tight end. If he can develop he could be a good second string tight end who could be a good red zone target.
Round 7 pick #18 Spencer Long OG Nebraska
A diamond in the rough?

Long missed the entire 2013 season with a one injury. Had he been healthy he would have been one of the highest rated guards in this years draft. While there red flags about his durability, the Jets need to address the mess at left guard. If he can get healthy, Long could be a decent guard as he was a solid all around offensive lineman in college. If he can return to form, he could be a dark horse to start at guard or at least be a good backup for Gang Green in 2014. Do you agree with these picks? Who do you think the Jets should draft in 2014? Like and comment below.

Saving Private Ryan: Why the Jets need Rex back

December 18, 2013December 18, 2013 / Rich Sports Talk / Leave a comment

Despite his flaws, Ryan remains the Jets best option moving forward

With another Jets season ending without a playoff berth, it looks like change is inevitable. Despite two AFC Championship appearances on his resume, many experts around the NFL believe the Jets should move on from Rex Ryan. True Rex Ryan does have his fair share of warts, but here are the reasons that the Jets should keep Rex Ryan as their head coach in 2014.

Defense: The Jets bread and butter is defense. While Ryan may not be an offensive genius, few can argue that there are many better defensive minds in the NFL than Rex Ryan. With a strong defensive foundation, especially on the defensive line, the Jets defense appears to have the potential to be one of the NFL’s best. This is this teams strength, and they need to keep it that way. This defense is one or two pieces in the secondary away from being a top unit in the NFL for the next few seasons. If you take away Rex Ryan, while the talent will be there, there is a chance that the new coach will not be able to push the right buttons and this defense will only be average.
Lack of Candidates: When it comes to coaches in the NFL I always believe that you only fire a coach if there is a better one available. Unfortunately for the Jets, I don’t see a better candidate then Rex. There is no hot college coach like Chip Kelly last year that could take the reins effectively. There are no great coordinators that have been making headlines as possible new coaches. There is only one man in my opinion who would be a better coach then Rex Ryan right now and that is John Gruden. Ok, I know it’s a long shot, but he has mentioned he would like to coach again. He would be perfect because he is a great offensive coach who understands how to use an aggressive defense. Sounds like a match in heaven, even if it’s a long shot. So unless Chucky wants to coach Gang Green, Rex Ryan is still the Jets best option.
Personal on the field: Let’s face it, Rex Ryan has done a lot with the marginal talent he has been given this season. Remember when the Jets were supposed to be the worst team in the league? Yet in week fifteen they were still in the hunt for the playoffs. While many blame Ryan’s approach for the offensive struggles, and while he is responsible for certain play calling, unfortunately they are one of the worst offensive units in the game. They have a rookie quarterback with the worst skill player personal in football. This is not Ryan’s fault but a front office who for the past five years has overpaid for players, Santonio Holmes, and traded away multiple draft picks. While Ryan does have a say in who the Jets bring in, it is ultimately up the Jets front office to give him the best pieces to win with. Heck, even when the Jets made the playoffs the first two seasons it was with a lackluster roster and Mark Sanchez playing quarterback.
Next year will be better: If anything Ryan deserves one more chance with this team. The Jets will have one of the best cap situations with the Sanchez, Cromartie, and Holmes contracts probably coming off the books by the end of the season. This will allow them to sign some much-needed talent in free agency. On top of that the Jets will have an extra third round pick from the Revis trade last year and extra compensation picks in the 2014 draft. Ryan has been shortchanged on this roster for years, give him a chance with a full deck.
Conclusion: Rex Ryan should have one more chance to coach the Jets in 2014. True he is not the best at handling the offense and may not be the best game manager, but considering the Jets other options next season, Ryan still remains the Jets best option. However, I think Rex should only get next year for one last chance. Give him a reasonable lineup with talent and a somewhat competent offense for him to work with. Unless the Jets can miraculously find a great coach, which I am skeptical about, Ryan is a better option than most coaching candidates. Also why would you take away a defensive coach when this defense hasn’t even scratched its potential yet? All in all I think Ryan deserves one more to coach the Jets. He is a very good coach who is passionate and knowledgeable. The Jets have one of the better coaches in the NFL, considering their relevant with the island of misfit weapons on offense. Hopefully Ryan will be back to lead Gang Green once again in 2014.