New York Jets 2009 Preview

New York Jets 2009 Preview

NFL odds are up for 2009 and few football betting experts can agree on what the New York Jets’ fate will be in 2009. On one hand, an already-solid defense gained a bunch of key personnel in the offseason and the running game is deep. On the other hand, they’ll likely depend on a rookie quarterback to carry the passing game. Can the “D” support the offense until Mark Sanchez gets comfortable?

Offseason Transactions

The Jets were among the NFL’s busiest teams this offseason and the defense in particular has some noteworthy newcomers. Former Pro-Bowl cornerback Lito Sheppard may not be the same player as he was in Philadelphia, but he’s a welcome addition to the secondary. Linebacker Bart Scott was expensive to poach from Baltimore but he should pay immediate dividends. The biggest addition of all may be new head coach Rex Ryan, who was highly successful as Baltimore’s defensive co-ordinator.

Offensively, the Jets built through the draft, drafting inexperienced but highly touted leader Mark Sanchez third overall to be their franchise quarterback. A less hyped pick who could have an impact this year is running back Shonn Greene, who is a thicker RB than Thomas Jones and Leon Washington and could get goal line work.

Key Position Battles

There are plenty of positions up for grabs in New York this offseason. Obviously, the big question is whether or not Mark Sanchez can beat out Kellen Clemens for the starting job. I wouldn’t bet against it happening, Yes, he only started one year at USC, but it was a year to remember for NCAA football as he established himself as true leader on and off the field. Sanchez reportedly already took on a similar role in Jets minicamp, rallying the offense to learn the system.

Don’t forget, Rex Ryan witnessed Joe Flacco’s rookie season in Baltimore, so he’s open to handing a rookie the reins. And it’s not like Kellen Clemens hasn’t flopped already; he started half the season in 2007 and threw twice as many picks as touchdowns.

Outside linebacker has some competition, as Calvin Pace will miss the first four games of the season due to a suspension. Vernon Gholston is the favorite to replace him and could remain a starter over Bryan Thomas when Pace returns.

It’s pretty clear that Jerricho Cotchery will at least be the No. 2, but Brad Smith and Chansi Stuckey are jockeying for the other starting wide receiver job. Reportedly, Smith has the edge, as the Jets like his athleticism and want to use him on trick plays.

Offense

This entire Jets team could be a poor man’s Baltimore Ravens. No matter who gets the rock, NFL prediction makers should expect the Jets to run the football well. Thomas Jones is versatile and tougher than he gets credit for, while Leon Washington is among the sport’s most explosive backs.

Whoever starts behind center for the Jets has a tall order this season. The receiving corps loses stability without Laveranues Coles and while tight end Dustin Keller looks promising, he can’t catch every pass himself. The running game ranked ninth last year and should stay there in 2009, but the passing game should slide into the league’s bottom third.

Defense

There’s plenty to like about the Jets defense, which ranked seventh against the run last year and will only get better in that regard thanks to Bart Scott. Gang Green was atrocious against the pass in 2008, allowing 234.5 yards per game (29th), but Lito Sheppard should give the secondary a boost and, most importantly, Ryan should have an extremely positive influence. The “D” won’t be perfect – they’ll be tired if the offense sputters and turns the ball over often – but it certainly won’t be the problem.

Outlook

The Jets are in a strange transitional phase and most betting services don’t know what to make of them. If you’re betting on the AFC East, stick with the Pats or even the high-upside Bills. The Jets could surprise if Sanchez pans out, but they’ll struggle to play .500 football if he goes through the normal growing pains. Remember – the uber-successful 2008 rookie class was the exception, not the norm.

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