The Top Five Most Underrated Moves of the 2009 NFL Offseason

There’s no need to play coy. The NFL offseason is all about the blockbuster transactions that generate the most headlines and pique the casual fan’s interest for longer than a day.

But the power moves aren’t always the most significant ones an organization can make to improve their team.

To know football is to know that games aren’t won by superstars alone.

The head coach hired in January, the guy who’s overpaid at the start of free agency, and the kid drafted early on that April afternoon won’t define the season by themselves.

Finding the appropriate complements for the things a team does well is what establishes winning traditions. Acquiring the perfect personnel who can appreciate and apply their team’s philosophy on the field makes all the difference.

 

Oakland Raiders Resign KR/CB Justin Miller

At first glance it would appear to be a minor and insignificant move, but the decision to resign Justin Miller could be a significant one for the Oakland Raiders.

After joining the Raiders halfway through the 2008 season, Miller provided a spark on special teams that was lacking everywhere else on the field. He returned kickoffs for touchdowns and was named Special Teams Player of the Month in December.

Drafted in the second-round out of Clemson, Miller never established himself as a true defensive back in his tenure with the New York Jets. But he was never given a real opportunity to develop, either.

Miller is aggressive by nature and has elite NFL speed. He’s a fearless runner and never shies away from contact. With that skill set, he could emerge as a quality safety if the Raiders choose to use him outside of special teams.

If not, he’s always good for a 90-yard kick return to get points on the board if the offense stalls.

 

Cleveland Browns Hire Rob Ryan as Defensive Coordinator

Rumors of Eric Mangini and Rob Ryan teaming up first surfaced during the 2008 offseason when Lane Kiffin was still coaching in Oakland.

Ryan was expected to be fired in favor of Lane’s father, Monte Kiffin. There was supposed to be a deal waiting for Ryan to join the Jets as soon as Oakland made it official.

Then Al Davis interfered and Mangini’s plans never came to fruition.

Now in Cleveland, Mangini has finally managed to team up with the defensive coordinator he needs to succeed.

Ryan brings the infamous defensive reputation established by his father, Buddy Ryan, to to the Browns. His experience as a coordinator should help alleviate the pressure for Mangini, who sometimes seems overwhelmed as he over-thinks his strategy.

While the defensive personnel Cleveland acquired throughout the offseason has Mangini’s stamp all over them, it’s going to be Ryan’s scheme that complements the discipline Mangini preaches.

It’s a welcomed change for Ryan after spending so many seasons with an undisciplined Raiders team.

 

Cincinnati Bengals Sign WR Laveranues Coles

When it became clear that the Bengals would be unable to retain T.J. Houshmandzadeh, finding a suitable replacement became critical.

Last season, the Bengals passing game shifted from being centered on Chad Ocho Cinco to Houshmandzadeh becoming the primary target. It was important for Cincinnati to find someone who could bring a similar skill set to the offense.

After forcing his way out of New York in pursuit of a long-term commitment, Laveranues Coles found the ideal contract with an offense that could utilize him to perfection.

At 31, Coles’ speed is deceitful. He has a good burst off the line of scrimmage, and is quick enough to extend a catch for extra yardage. Most importantly, he’s a fearless receiver who will cross the middle and hang on to the ball after contact.

No longer a primary receiver, Coles can be the same complement to Ocho Cinco that Houshmandzadeh was. He was good enough with the Jets to command double teams, and could pose an offensive mismatch while defenders focus on No. 85.

 

New York Jets Steal CB Lito Sheppard from the Philadelphia Eagles

The free agent pool was noticeably shallow for cornerbacks this offseason. With DeAngelo Hall and Domonique Foxworth setting the bar for exorbitant contracts, New York wasn’t going to overpay for marginal talent like the Redskins and Ravens did.

But the Jets still needed a cornerback to play opposite Darrelle Revis, and Philadelphia happened to be stacked.

Sheppard slid down the depth chart after injuries and contract disputes, making the former All-Pro available to New York for a fifth-round draft choice and a conditional 2010 pick.

But it’s the terms of the deal Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum worked out that makes this move so underrated.

Knowing that Sheppard’s history of injuries would be a concern, Tannenbaum protected the Jets in the scenario that Lito doesn’t pan out as expected. And he salvaged the conditional 2010 draft pick with a potential poison pill for the Eagles.

Philadelphia receives a 2010 draft pick if Sheppard is on the field for 85-percent of the snaps. That’s won’t be difficult if he remains healthy and returns to All-Pro form.

But the second-half of that negotiation requires Sheppard to receive a four-year, $27.2M contract extension in March 2010 after the Jets pay out a $10M option bonus.

The conditional 2010 pick is contingent upon both things happening. And if anyone has paid attention to Tannenbaum over the last few seasons, they’d know that he’s more likely to release someone than pay them.

 

New York Giants Don’t Trade for WR Braylon Edwards

On the rarest of occasions, it’s the move that isn’t made that has the most significant impact.

Refusing to succumb to their obvious desperation at wide receiver, the Giants opted to use their draft picks to fill holes rather than mortgage them on disgruntled Browns’ receiver Braylon Edwards.

A deal for Edwards was seemingly imminent in the weeks leading up to the draft.

But Big Blue learned their lesson from Plaxico Burress and decided not to pull the trigger on another diva receiver.

When at the top of his game, Edwards is undoubtedly among the best in the game. A receiver who caught 16 touchdowns in one season should always be worth a gamble.

Unfortunately, every time the ball is thrown his way it’s a gamble.

After leading the NFL in drops in 2008, taking a risk on a receiver who’s demanding a new contract would be counterproductive to the Super Bowl winning chemistry the Giants hope to re-establish for Eli Manning.

Ultimately, the Giants were able to use their draft picks on players they could develop internally. Hakeem Nicks and Ramses Barden were selected to be long-term solutions, not an immediate band-aid.

By not trading for Edwards, the Giants avoid a severe case of the Drop Flu, and won’t have to deal with headaches from a player whose mind wouldn’t be focused on football.

Who’s interested in a player who asks his opponents about modeling opportunities in the middle of a game, anyway?

Honorable Mentions

Dallas Cowboys sign DE Igor Olshansky: Jerry Jones was given a lot of credit this offseason for stepping away from the headline-grabbing players. He severed ties with Pacman and lost $9M to not play with Terrell Owens. Signing Igor Olshansky stood as a testament to his commitment to bring pure football back to Dallas.

New Orleans Saints sign Darren Sharper: The Saints’ search for quality defensive backs continues. Signing Sharper isn’t the answer to all their prayers, but he brings his reputation and leadership skills to a secondary that’s never had guidance.

Carolina Panthers resign Jordan Gross: When you have one of the best rush attacks in the NFL, you don’t play games with the men who open holes for them. Jordan Gross has done everything the Panthers asked of him since being drafted, and has done it well. Sure, Julius Peppers’ whining made the decision to extend Gross’ contract easier. But Gross deserved it on his own merit, too.

Coach by Example: Doug Plank Defines Ryan’s Violence for New York Jets

“That wasn’t a $2,000 hit. They should have hit him with a $10,000 fine. I’ve got a wife and a kid, and he was trying to take my job away from me.”
                                —Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Jimmie Giles on Chicago Bears’ safety Doug Plank

 

It was Monday night, Oct. 6, 1980, when Doug Plank cemented his reputation as one of the NFL’s most vicious hitters before a national audience.

Plank delivered a vicious blow to Jimmie Giles when he smashed his helmet square into the tight end’s chest. Giles would leave the game for some time as Bucs’ quarterback Doug Williams disputed the legality of Plank’s contact. 

The hit didn’t draw a penalty, but it drew an attempt at retaliation from Giles later in the game. The NFL took action, the Buccaneers took it personally, and Plank took it all in stride.

“Any time you can get another player thinking about something other than his assignment, it’s good,” said Plank after the game.

Wearing No. 46 during his eight seasons with the Bears, Plank’s reputation was immortalized when Buddy Ryan created the 46 defense in his honor. The defensive alignment was designed to be fast, aggressive, and relentless against the offense: exactly how Plank played.

Although his career was shortened by injuries sustained while playing the only way he knew how, the memories of Plank’s devastating approach to football continue to inspire the Ryan family. 

It’s Plank’s brand of defensive football that New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan promised to deliver to his opponents in his introductory press conference.

“The message to the rest of the league is ‘Hey, the Jets are coming, and we’re going to give you everything we got,'” said Ryan. “And I think that’s going to be more than you can handle.”

So when it was time for Ryan to place his stamp on the Jets, bringing Plank on board was the most natural thing the first-year head coach could do.

Gone are the days of Eric Mangini’s timid, read-and-react defensive approach.

Signing Doug Plank to coach the secondary speaks louder than any quote Rex Ryan threw at the media. It speaks volumes of Ryan’s commitment to turning the Jets into one of the NFL’s most intimidating defenses to date.

And given his family history, that’s going to be a tall order for Ryan to fill.

Looking to Plank was the only way Ryan could truly honor the impact of his words. It’s a personnel move that immediately proved his dedication to making the Jets more physical, and even rivals the Jets aggressive pursuit of Bart Scott at the start of free agency. 

The Jets’ secondary was the defense’s Achilles’ heel in 2008, allowing over 230 yards per game and finishing 29th in the league against the pass. With so much talent in the secondary, opposing quarterbacks were never challenged through the air.

A defensive backfield boasting Pro Bowl cornerback Darrelle Revis, star safety Kerry Rhodes, and future Hall of Fame cornerback Ty Law should never rank towards the bottom in the NFL.

Since talent wasn’t the issue, then the concerns have to rest with the coaching. These athletes weren’t being motivated to play to their full potential. 

Now they have Plank to look to for guidance, a man whose career was defined by leaving everything he had on the field.

With the hard-nosed safety Jim Leonhard and former All-Pro Lito Sheppard joining Rhodes and Revis during the offseason, New York now boasts even more talent in 2009.

Plank is the man who should be able to aim them most effectively in accordance with Ryan’s schemes.

The skills and intangibles are already in place for the Jets. The actual hard work lies in getting the unit to execute efficiently.

And if there’s anyone who knows about execution on the football field, it’s one of Chicago’s original hitmen. 

Resurrecting the 2004 New York Jets: Can Rex Ryan Perfect Their Formula?

They didn’t win the Super Bowl, nor did they make it to the AFC Championship game. Heck, they didn’t even win the AFC East that season.

While any and all of those outcomes would have been glorious, the truth is that it doesn’t really matter.

Not in the slightest.

With the Jets’ extensive history of heartbreak, it may defy all logic to be fond of a team whose season ended tragically. But where most see tragedy, this man sees the drama, excitement, and emotion that makes us all fans of the New York Jets and professional sports.

Despite the untimely demise of their season, the philosophy that allowed that team to achieve success is returning to the New York Jets. Better yet, it’s returning with improved personnel, a chip on it’s shoulder, and—of course—swagger.

 

The Runaway Roller Coaster

After a disappointing 2003 campaign, the Jets surprised the entire NFL by jumping out to a 5-0 start. Curtis Martin started the season with a 196-yard performance on the Bengals, and the Jets were winning games in the most thrilling fashion.

However, credit was not given where credit was due.

The Jets 5-0 start was considered a fluke. No one believed the Jets had actually defeated any worthy contenders.

After their first loss at the hands of the New England Patriots, the Jets were brought back to reality. Their 5-0 start would ultimately fizzle out to a 5-6 finish.

The 2004 season would bring the injury to Chad Pennington’s shoulder that would go on to question his ability to be an effective quarterback in the NFL. Missing three games, the Jets went 2-1 without him in November.

Pennington returned at the start of December, and looked healthy enough as the Jets obliterated the Houston Texans to improve to 9-3.

But New York would win only one more game—a 37-14 beat down of the Seattle Seahawks—finishing the season with a 10-6 record and a highly criticized playoff berth.

From 5-0 to 10-6, the New York Jets were accused of backing into the postseason.

 

The Reality of the 2004 New York Jets

The severity of Pennington’s shoulder injury was initially neglected because the 2004 Jets were—without a doubt—Curtis Martin’s team.

At the age of 31, the Jets’ beloved running back had his best season. He rushed for 12 touchdowns—a team record at the time—and won the NFL rushing title with 1,697 yards.

With no receiver crossing the 1,000-yard threshold, the Jets’ offense only went where Martin could carry them.

But it was the defense that made the most significant impact in the Jets’ improbable playoff run. First year defensive coordinator Donnie Henderson and rookie phenom Jonathan Vilma led the charge, making the Jets defense a legitimate force.

Hired to coordinate the defense after spending four seasons as the Baltimore Ravens’ defensive backs coach, Henderson transformed the Jets into a top 10 defense, finishing seventh in the NFL.

The Jets were ranked 21st in the previous season.

Vilma, the Jets’ first overall draft pick in 2004, earned defensive rookie of the year honors after replacing Sam Cowart at middle linebacker.

Establishing himself as a leader in the middle of Henderson’s 4-3 defensive alignment, Vilma and the Jets allowed only 3.6 yards per carry, ranking fifth in the NFL against the run.

While New York’s 5-0 start should have allowed them to finish better than 10-6, every single victory was earned the hard way. Martin was relied upon heavily to dictate the pace of the game while the defense stifled most attempts to gain momentum.

Every win wasn’t pretty, but every win earned them the right to be a Wild Card.

 

Jets are Wild: Thrilling Postseason Shocks Both Ways

The Drew Brees-led San Diego Chargers were the hands-down favorite in the AFC Wild Card round. The clock was supposed to strike midnight on the Jets’ Cinderella postseason.

But it didn’t work out that way.

Playing all-weather football, the Jets fought toe-to-toe with the supposedly superior Chargers.

Despite San Diego scoring first, the Jets managed to grab a 17-10 lead they would hold until the final seconds when a roughing-the-passer penalty on Eric Barton gave Drew Brees the opportunity he needed to send the game into overtime. 

It would be New York’s second overtime game in as many weeks.

After Nate Kaeding missed the field goal that would’ve won the game for his Chargers, the Jets took the field and lowered their shoulders to grind it out for tough yards.

Lamont Jordan—the underutilized complement to Martin—led the way into Chargers’ territory for the field goal that would send the Jets to Heinz Field.

Even less favored than in the previous week, the Jets’ tenacity turned their game against the Pittsburgh Steelers into another overtime thriller.

The offense was limited against the Steelers’ defense, but the Jets had enough fight in them to grab another 17-10 lead.

Santana Moss’ 75-yard punt return for a touchdown tied the game at 10. But it was Reggie Tongue’s 86-yard interception for a touchdown that put the Jets over the Steelers.

And so ensued the heartbreak that makes the 2004 New York Jets one of the most difficult to remember.

Jets’ kicker Doug Brien was in position to send New York to the AFC Championship game twice before time expired.

His first opportunity was from 47 yards away, but Brien didn’t have enough leg to connect, hitting the crossbar.

He was quickly granted another shot after David Barrett intercepted Ben Roethlisberger one play later. With slightly more admirable field position, Brien was given the four extra yards he would have needed to get his kick through the uprights, only to send the ball wide left.

New York would go into their third straight overtime and fall to Jeff Reed’s leg.

 

Picking Up Where They Left Off…Five Years Later

The reputation that’s followed Rex Ryan from Baltimore to New York intensified the memories of what Donnie Henderson carried into the Meadowlands during his first season as the coordinator.

Under Henderson, the Jets were aggressive, tenacious, and effective. These are all things Ryan has guaranteed since his introductory press conference. 

But it’s the talent on the Jets roster that makes Rex Ryan’s confidence all the more believable. The 2004 New York Jets have comparable counterparts in 2009, and an identical philosophy heading into the season.

With a stronger rush attack and a defense that promises to be more aggressive than anything Henderson crafted, the confidence Ryan displays can be immediately justified.

While Thomas Jones is not Curtis Martin, he will be the same age as No. 28 at the start of the 2009 season. Jones will be a younger 31 than Curtis Martin was, not having been a feature back throughout his career.

He also has the benefit of running behind a younger, stronger offensive line than Martin had in 2004.

Most importantly, the offensive strategy is expected to make usage of the two-back system, allowing for complementary backs to share the workload. Martin never had that luxury despite Lamont Jordan sitting behind him as the perfect change of pace back.

In 2004, one of the starting receivers was Justin McCareins—the same Justin McCareins that Jerricho Cotchery replaced in 2006.

Wearing the No. 83, Chansi Stuckey inspires memories of Santana Moss with his ability to quickly get through defenders. He’s sure-handed and isn’t afraid to cross the middle.

What the 2004 team didn’t have was Leon Washington and Dustin Keller.

Washington has established himself as the most explosive playmaker on the roster, while Keller follows closely behind. In his second season, Keller is the definition of a mismatch for opposing defenses as he’s too big for defensive backs and too fast for linebackers.

Defensively, the 2004 team didn’t have Bart Scott, Kris Jenkins, Darrelle Revis, or Kerry Rhodes either. All men are among the best in the NFL in their positions and figure to be key components to Ryan’s aggressive defense.

The final piece comes down to whoever is named the quarterback for 2009.

Regardless of who’s selected, Mark Sanchez or Kellen Clemens, both should be more effective than an injured Pennington in the postseason.

The 2004 Jets can’t be defined by their final results or how deep they went in the playoffs.

It was their fighting spirit that made them so memorable—an intangible quality that Rex Ryan can only hope to inspire in 2009.

New York Jets Re-Sign Bubba Franks: A Little Less Tight at Tight End

While it would be premature to declare the problem as solved, the New York Jets have made a personnel move that will bring much needed veteran depth to the anemic tight end position.

Finally addressing one of the more significant roster concerns, it’s being reported by the New Jersey Star-Ledger that the Jets have reached a one-year deal with Bubba Franks, bringing him back after an injury-shortened 2008 season.

Franks developed a reputation as more of a pass-catching tight end during his best seasons with the Green Bay Packers, but after nine seasons in the league, the 31-year-old should be able to sufficiently occupy defensive linemen on run plays.

Acquiring a suitable player to complement Dustin Keller in his second season was a priority for New York. Keller is expected to have an expanded role in Brian Schottenheimer’s offense, but finding support for him was critical.

Keller provides a mis-match for opposing defenses every time he’s on the field, as he’s too big for defensive backs and too fast for linebackers. However, a more traditional tight end was a necessity as Keller is better suited in a hybrid-receiver role.

James Dearth is listed on the official roster as a tight end, but sees his only action as a long-snapper.

Keller was the only remaining tight end after Chris Baker was released in February and Franks was allowed to walk at the start of free agency.

After neglecting the position throughout the offseason, New York signed three undrafted free agents and met with Michael Gaines, formerly of the Detroit Lions.

It’s likely that re-signing Franks was the Jets’ contingency plan after Gaines’ decided to sign with the Chicago Bears.

Of the undrafted free agents, the most notable performance during rookie minicamps came from J’Nathan Bullock, a collegiate basketball player at Cleveland State who hadn’t played football since his senior year of high school.

While Bullock has drawn comparisons to Antonio Gates, Rex Ryan must have realized that leaving the position to chance with an undrafted free agent would have been irresponsible. After promising a run-first offensive strategy in 2009, finding a veteran to help on the offensive line was critical.

If Franks has returned to full health, the signing proves to be one of the safer moves the Jets could have made. His best years are certainly behind him, but he can contribute effectively in a reduced role.

His familiarity with Schottenheimer’s playbook can allow the Jets to maintain consistency in the offense if Mark Sanchez does start from day one.

Entering his tenth season, Franks knows his way around the line of scrimmage; and at 6-6, he could be the tall target every quarterback needs in the red zone.

Defining Vernon Gholston: Asking the Tough Questions for 2009

“He’s ready to come out and, believe me, it’s in there. We all know it’s in there. But it’s my job to get this guy playing at a high level by any means necessary, and that’s what we’re going to do.
                                                                                             -Head coach Rex Ryan on Vernon Gholston

 

After becoming the New York Jets’ first selection in 2008, it was difficult to assess reasonable expectations for Vernon Gholston. The only thing that was certain for him: As the sixth-overall pick, he had to be an impact player.

However, Gholston’s selection was met with hesitation. When compared to the fanfare after the 2009 Mark Sanchez selection, the apprehension everyone felt with Gholston is now palpable.

In the weeks leading up to the draft, Gholston’s stock soared despite the warning label that was transfixed to his name. Draft with caution, prophesied the analysts.

Impressive combine performances and an imposing physical presence proved his potential, but many doubted his ability to actually realize it on the professional level. Behold the second coming of Mike Mamula.

With his rookie season in the books and no notable accomplishments to speak of, the “I told you so” chorus could be heard from miles away. But their harmony is premature.

Gholston struggled to find the field because he wasn’t immediately needed. He was a defensive end drafted to play outside linebacker for a team that was already crowded at the position.

Heading into the season, his development wasn’t an immediate concern. He was afforded necessary time to develop as the veteran linebackers held down the fort from the onset.

The Jets were among the NFL’s sack leaders, ranking as high as second in the league before their midseason slump. There was no immediate rush to see results from Gholston until desperation became a factor.

With so many concerns heading into his second season, Gholston can now control his own destiny or collapse under the pressure. Now that his rookie season is behind him, it’s necessary to understand his psychological makeup.

 

Dear Vernon Gholston

Most fans don’t appreciate the significance a jersey number holds for players. When Eric Barton left the Jets for free agency, how important was it for you to get back your No. 50 from Ohio State?

It obviously takes an extraordinary amount of dedication and discipline to obtain a physique like yours. What’s the biggest hindrance when trying to translate that same commitment to the football field?

After hearing all the criticism, you actively sought out New York Giants legend Lawrence Taylor. While it can only be beneficial to receive guidance from an all-time great, were your veteran teammates actively supporting your growth?

Your calm and relaxed demeanor was often challenged during your first season. How do you plan to respond to the people who believe you lack the passion to play at the highest level?

The Jets placed a premium on rushing the passer in the 2008 offseason. With so many outside linebackers on the roster, did you find the competition for playing time to be overwhelming?

The shift from Eric Mangini’s read-and-react defensive approach to Ryan’s attack-style defense should allow for more instinctive play. Do you believe that’s going to beneficial to your style of play?

In an interview with the New York Daily News, you said you “like to definitely go for the quarterback.” Do you find that it’s easier to do that on the defensive line, or do you prefer the approach as an outside linebacker? What’s the biggest difference between the positions?

You were drafted high and expected to play out of the position that made you a highly-touted prospect. Did you have a sense that Mangini’s plan for you would be a hindrance to your advancement?

Rex Ryan has been extremely vocal about his desire to bring the best out of you. Do you have faith in this current staff to place you in the best possible position to succeed?

Who do you hope is on the receiving end of your first NFL sack?

Mark Sanchez vs. Kellen Clemens: The QB Competition No One Should Believe

Eric Mangini’s cryptic approach to dealing with the press might be a thing of the past, but placing absolute faith in any words escaping from Florham Park in the offseason is still ill-advised.

This isn’t to say that the New York Jets are liars. It can be credited as a strategic approach, as it’s quite obvious that this organization enjoys keeping its thoughts very close to the chest.

With the rookie minicamp over and Mark Sanchez back in California preparing to receive his degree from USC, the Jets’ lip service is as consistent as ever.

“I’m looking forward to watching these guys compete,” said Brian Schottenheimer, the Jets’ fourth-year offensive coordinator.

Does he believe that as much as he did in March, when he told SNY that the Jets’ 2009 opening day QB was currently on the roster?

Surely you jest.

In all actuality, everyone is really looking forward to watching Mark Sanchez perform well enough to justify being named the starter from the onset.

No one is interested in another competition involving Kellen Clemens, nor does anyone believe it.

The summer will be filled with press clippings and quotables from the Jets’ offices about Clemens and his legitimate shot to be named the starter. They will cite his familiarity with the offense, the intangibles he’s developed since being drafted, and his capability to be a leader of men.

That’s so last year. Such words held more merit in 2008, when the battle was between Clemens and the recently benched Chad Pennington. 

The team’s feelings on Clemens and his ability to lead this team in the future were made clear on Aug. 6, 2008.

The second Brett Favre to New York was official, no one should have had any doubts as to where Clemens stood with the organization and their future plans.

If general manager Mike Tannenbaum was willing to part with as high as a first-round choice for one season of Favre-ball, then it’s ridiculous to assume Clemens is a legitimate option at this point.

That unwillingness to stand by Clemens received what appears to be the final stamp of emphasis, when the Jets jumped 12 spots in the draft to select the quarterback they coveted most.

Head coach Rex Ryan has used every opportunity available to him to recall Baltimore’s success after starting Joe Flacco as a rookie. That should further cement the Jets’ internal hopes that Sanchez can do enough to be named the starter during training camp.

With Sanchez expected to sign a contract that would guarantee him upwards of $30M, there’s no purpose in delaying the inevitable.

There’s a slight possibility that this competition can bring forth a situation similar to the Drew Brees-Philip Rivers battle in San Diego. But that road still led down it’s original path—Rivers became the starter and was, arguably, the best statistical QB in the NFL last season.

One thing is obvious in this battle: the New York Jets will never belong to Kellen Clemens. That’s not intended to be a knock on the young man as much as it’s a blunt declaration of the obvious.

If the Jets were enamored with Sanchez’s intelligence, confidence, and football knowledge, then it would defy logic to try and protect him from the growing pains every rookie faces.

With as little collegiate experience as Sanchez has coming into the NFL, it’s an even worse idea to remove him from the tempo of a real game for an extended amount of time.

Sanchez is expected to be this team’s franchise QB, for better or for worse. No amount of waiting behind someone in whom the Jets were never deeply invested will prepare him for what’s to come.

 

Angel Navedo is a contributing writer to TheJetsBlog.com and the Examiner for the New York Jets. He can be reached here, or you can follow him on Twitter.

Mark Sanchez Faces Battle Between Career and Culture in New York

He’s a 22-year-old superstar with an entire population on his shoulders—all because of the name stitched to the back of his jersey.

It’s the cross Mark Sanchez carries, and—based on reports during his collegiate career—it’s a responsibility he embraces.

Unfortunately, it’s also an opportunity for agendas. Less than a week after being drafted, all eyes are on Sanchez and what he represents for the Hispanic community:

“A few days after the Jets’ blockbuster draft-day trade, Gerry Salme hoped a man he had never heard of would help him…

“…For the director of operations at the FOCUS Hispanic Center for Community Development in Newark, Sanchez’s greatest impact will involve forging a connection with the nearly 1.4 million Hispanics in New Jersey…

“…’It would help our children if he could have that direct involvement,’ Salme said. ‘It would motivate them, raise their self-esteem, and give them hope that they also can become professional athletes if they set their minds to it.’“

The problem is that there’s no shortage of inner-city kids who hope to become professional athletes. They’re not oblivious to the contracts or the fame.

Perhaps the focus they should hope for Sanchez to inspire revolves around influencing the kids to receive a college education first.

Everyone is currently bearing witness to the profound impact Mark Sanchez is having on the expansion of the New York Jets’ fanbase. His reach extends to an area that has everyone from fans to league officials brimming with excitement.

As a Puerto Rican man in New York, I understand the importance someone like Sanchez can have on the entire community. In a society where everything is taught to be black and white, the Hispanic identity gets lost outside of our own homes.

Hispanic studies are an afterthought in the curriculum for most grade schools. It’s accommodated to an extent, but never focused upon. In society, the only options are to blend into the middle class, or disappear into poverty. 

Having someone notable in a position to teach the children that it’s never about assimilation, but about carving a distinct path, is of the absolute essence. In truth, having someone notable who excels outside of the typical Latino boundaries is critical.

However, this is where I become apprehensive. The pressure is on Sanchez two-fold. With less than a week as a member of the New York Jets, it’s already as if his significance to the Hispanic community is contingent upon his on-field performance.

This forced marriage between his career and his ethnicity blurs the lines of what’s actually important. New York Jets’ fans simply want a face for their franchise—someone who can lead the organization to prosperity.

But Hispanic leaders like Gerry Salme look to Sanchez as a beacon of hope to idolize and inspire.

Sanchez’s ability to lead is well-documented, so the chips look to fall in his favor on both fronts. But what if they don’t?

Sanchez’s impact within the Hispanic community shouldn’t have to hinge on his professional success alone. He’s a well-spoken, personable, and confident young man who deserves to be admired by his community. But not only because of how he smiles and throws a football.

Before he becomes the international icon the NFL wants him to be, is it okay for him to win a game first?

After that, then it might be safer for the added expectations to fall into place.

M.A. Mehta of the New Jersey Star-Ledger goes on to write, “Sanchez’s charisma could also fuel the National Football League’s efforts to boost its Hispanic fanbase, estimated at 25 million people. The league’s diversity initiatives to attract Latino followers have included promoting stars like Pro Bowl tight end Tony Gonzalez and playing a regular-season game in Mexico City.”

Much like the rumors of a Super Bowl in London, it’s all about extending the reach of the league for marketing and business purposes. I don’t fault the NFL for that.

But at what point does it become exploitation?

If the pressure to perform wasn’t high enough as a rookie quarterback making the transition to the NFL, imagine coupling the objective to win while trying to fulfill the league’s plans for global domination.

Being under a microscope comes with the territory of being a QB in the largest market, I suppose. Unfortunately, I was foolishly hoping that his play could do the talking for him before his last name ever did.

 

Angel Navedo is a contributing writer to TheJetsBlog.com and the Examiner for the New York Jets. He can be reached here, or you can follow him on Twitter.

It’s Not In the Game: Fixing the New York Jets’ Uniforms in Madden 2010

Every August, 60 of my hard-earned dollars find their way into a Gamestop register for a game I will play religiously over the next 12 months.

The release of the newest Madden game has become an unofficial holiday among gamers; it’s a day nearly as significant as the Super Bowl. Fans of the franchise pre-order months in advance, congregate outside stores for midnight releases, and make their first day with the game a 24-hour affair.

I don’t go to such extremes, but I do love the series. In fact, I love it so much that I’ve maintained my silence—until now—regarding minor details that absolutely murder my soul.

I will explain what it is that’s devastating me most, but I’d like to test your sight first. Do you see what I see?

Rendered above is the New York Jets’ shiny new franchise QB in all of his virtual glory.

If you assumed that I’m most upset with his overall rating, I’m afraid that you’re mistaken.

My issue is with what Mark Sanchez is wearing. The uniform is outdated.

A few years ago, the Jets made some modifications to their uniforms. They adopted a darker shade of green, and the sleeves took on a slightly different look. Instead of being one solid color all the way around, the underarm portion of the sleeve became consistent with the dominant color of the uniform.

This is especially important to me because these subtle changes meant the difference between $120 for a customized authentic jersey I purchased from the NFL Shop. The older versions were being sold out a discounted price, but being the shallow and materialistic man I am, I paid over $100 for a modification most people do not recognize.

I understand that this slight change that I speak of may be unclear to some. Therefore, I’ve provided images of Brett Favre during the 2008 season—wearing the Jets’ most recent uniform—to illustrate my point.

 

For emphasis, this next picture is of former QB Chad Pennington—prior to the modification—wearing the jersey that the Madden franchise still models their rendition by:

As you can see, it is a very minute detail. The alterations are so subtle that I understand how they could be overlooked.

But I can’t allow my Jets to be neglected by the developers any longer.

Every time I boot up one of my Madden games and hear EA Sports’, “It’s in the game!” trademark, I’m aggravated with the details that aren’t.

EA Sports has taken plenty of knocks for being lazy since they acquired the official NFL license, so I won’t contribute to that bashing. I actually appreciate the annual modifications and improvements to gameplay.

I want to continue feeling that way, but as long as they continue to use an outdated uniform model for my New York Jets, I’ll struggle internally with my commitment to the gaming empire.

For those of you who feel inclined, I have addressed this concern on EA’s official message board.

I encourage any readers who have ever played this game to show Electronic Arts that there are enough Jets fans who care about NFL teams being properly represented.

The annual objective focuses upon authenticity. Making this adjustment would be a strong step towards solidifying that stance, and showing their commitment to the fans.

 

Angel Navedo is a contributing writer to TheJetsBlog.com and the Examiner for the New York Jets. He can be reached here, or you can follow him on Twitter.

An American Super Bowl in London: NFL Hopes to Take the Game Abroad

Amidst all the draft buzz and infatuation with everyone’s next top prospect, some disturbing news has leaked out of the NFL’s offices regarding conversations to play a Super Bowl in London.

NFL officials have confirmed that there have been legitimate discussions to hold the Super Bowl in London.

While the next three locations for the big game have been established, it’s possible that London will play host to an unofficial American holiday within the next five years.

“We’ve spoken on what it would take to host and for us to bring it over,” said events vice-president Frank Supovitz to the BBC, speaking in New York City a day before the NFL Draft will take place there.

“The city has all the facilities needed, and in great quantity.”

Progress for the sake of progress?

The intentions to turn this into the International Football League are out of control. How can one justify taking the Super Bowl out of the country? Because 80,000 fans made it out for a regular season contest?

I understand the dollars and cents. I know it’s all about revenue. But the Super Bowl is an American tradition, one that many fans overseas don’t understand or appreciate. Color me selfish if you must, but I stand by this.

There’s no doubt in my mind that a Super Bowl in London would bring in enough revenue for the league to consider it a success. But it would be a failure when it comes to league-fan relations in the US.

It’s another slap in the face to the common NFL fan who already can’t afford to attend the Super Bowl when it’s on US soil.

As much as I want the New York Jets to achieve Super Bowl glory in my lifetime, I’ve resigned myself to the fact that I won’t be able to afford to attend the game when they do make it.

Sending it overseas is another blow to the true NFL fans who made this league popular enough to even consider such a move.

Can you imagine a Super Bowl not played during prime-time? That’s what it’s going to be if it’s played in London, unless the NFL wants to subject their new fans to sticking to American time.

It would be silly of me to compare the NFL Europe project to the Super Bowl, but American Football has never been able to develop an actual following overseas. Soccer and rugby reign supreme with sports fans outside of the US.

They’ll come out in droves to a Super Bowl for the novelty of it all, but where will the true fan’s presence be?

At this point, there’s no need to play coy; the general idea behind all of this is to find a way to justify making a professional franchise in the UK. It’s been rumored and speculated upon for as long as I can remember, and this would be a strong step toward making it happen.

And make no mistake, the plan will fail if ever executed.

Unless the NFL has a secret on how to expand the NFL talent pool, there’s no way a franchise will have the legs to survive in London while it builds toward the future. The league can hardly work out a reasonable schedule between east and west teams to try and accommodate reasonable overseas travel.

There aren’t enough talented players to help the troubled franchises in the US succeed on a regular basis. Is London prepared to tolerate an 0-16 embarrassment?

Are they going to find enough quality players to pique (and keep) the interest soccer and rugby lovers?

It’s another test of American fans’ patience. The threats of making the Super Bowl a pay-per-view event made heads roll. This is going to launch them clear out of the atmosphere.

 

Angel Navedo is a contributing writer to TheJetsBlog.com and the Examiner for the New York Jets. He can be reached here, or you can follow him on Twitter.

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