What Jets Fans Learn From the First Two Days of OTAs
Offseason programs are underway in the NFL, and the New York Jets have been at OTAs since May 20th. In that short amount of time, many things have already come out about the team. The media got their first real look at new quarterback Justin Fields, who was participating in 11-on-11 drills. Rookie head coach Aaron Glenn and wide receiver Garrett Wilson also spoke to the media and gave some insight into the state of the team.
100% Attendance at OTAs
When speaking to the media on Wednesday, Aaron Glenn mentioned that the Jets had a 100% attendance rate for the first day of OTAs, and said he “wouldn’t be shocked” if the numbers reflected the same for day two. This is very good news to hear for the new head coach, as it shows he is instating a much different culture than the previous regime. Many players, like Garrett Wilson and Sauce Gardner, are looking for new deals this season and have every right to not show up to voluntary workouts while they wait to be extended, yet they are there in full participation. This shows that all players on the team are already buying into the new coach’s message and that the culture in the locker room is already beginning to shift.
Will McDonald’s Bulk-Up
Another notable piece of information from Glenn’s press conference was his mentioning that edge rusher Will McDonald has put on 15 pounds of muscle in the offseason. McDonald broke out last season following an increased workload after Jermaine Johnson’s Achilles injury. McDonald had 10.5 sacks on the year but was a bit of a non-factor in the run game. Glenn believes that the extra weight will help McDonald set the edge a bit better this season. It has not hampered his trademark speed, as SNY’s Connor Hughes said that McDonald looked “like a beast” on day two.
Jermaine Johnson’s Injury Rehab
One of the biggest question marks for the Jets this season is the status of edge rusher Jermaine Johnson. After tearing his Achilles in week two last season, the former first-rounder has been slowly working his way back. Despite his efforts, ESPN’s Rich Cimini said that he is not expected to be ready by training camp. If this is the case, then the Jets will have to rely on players like rookie Tyler Baron to fill his role while he works to get back to full health.
Garrett Wilson Wants to be a “Jet for Life”
Wide receiver Garrett Wilson also spoke to the media on Wednesday. When asked about his contract situation, Wilson stated that he wants to be a “Jet for life”, and he is hopeful that a deal will get done. Wilson also mentioned that there have been contracting discussions “here and there”, but nothing has materialized yet. Wilson is a fan favorite for the Jets after starting his career with three straight 1,000-yard seasons despite inconsistent quarterback play, and the fact that he wants to stay will most likely be music to Jets fans’ ears.
First Look at Justin Fields in the Offense
The media got their first look at quarterback Justin Fields, and early signs look promising. According to Cimini, Field’s mobility was “on full display” in the rain, as he broke the pocket for a couple of scrambles. Cimini says it’s the first time in a while that the Jets have a quarterback who can do some serious damage with both his arm and his legs. Fields have also never been surrounded with this much talent, with a borderline top-10 receiver in Wilson, as well as a completely rebuilt offensive line. At 26, Fields is in a position to finally reach his sky-high potential.
