Five things we learned about the Jets this preseason
Geno Smith's broken jaw kept him out of preseason action and will do the same for the first four regular season games, giving way to Ryan Fitzpatrick at quarterback. First-year head coach Todd Bowles is tasked with winning without stellar quarterback play, but a strong defense should help with that.
The first-team defense wasn't as stout as they looked on paper, but a few bright spots have to make Bowles excited. Leonard Williams is one of those bright spots, as he flashed big time potential this preseason.
With the regular season set to kick off on Thursday, here are the five most important things we learned from the Bills' preseason.
1. Leonard Williams is as good as advertised
The Jets got a steal by selecting the draft's best defensive player, Leonard Williams, at No. 6 overall. Thus far, he's been as good as advertised and is a capable replacement for Sheldon Richardson while he serves his suspension. He recorded five tackles, 1.5 sacks and a safety against the Falcons in Week 2, which was his best preseason game.
2. Punt returns remain an issue
The Jets have had issues at punt returner this offseason, which led them to send Eric Decker back to receive punts in Week 3 of the preseason. He misplayed both kicks horribly, forcing the Jets to make a change. Chris Owusu is a capable return man, but concussions have hindered his play. It's an issue that needs to be addressed before the regular season begins.
3. The secondary should be elite
Darrelle Revis, Antonio Cromartie, Buster Skrine, Calvin Pryor and Marcus Gilchrist: Those are the guys opposing quarterbacks have to throw against on a weekly basis. They all played well in the preseason, although Cromartie was targeted frequently. He did have a pick-six in Week 3, but the rest of the secondary was just as solid.
4. Ryan Fitzpatrick is a capable leader
Geno Smith's sudden injury derailed the Jets' plans at quarterback, but steady veteran Ryan Fitzpatrick will step in and lead the offense. He didn't throw an interception in the preseason and completed 67 percent of his passes, both of which are good signs. He has the experience and leadership to help the team win games while Smith recovers from a broken jaw.
5. The offense lacks playmakers
Aside from Eric Decker and Brandon Marshall, the Jets lack dynamic playmakers on offense. Chris Ivory is a bulldozing back but isn't a home-run threat, while long-ball specialist Devin Smith missed all of the preseason with an injury. The offense has put up solid numbers, but they're somewhat skewed given the lack of time from the starters. The defense will carry this team, but the offense has to improve.
