The 2022 preseason concludes for the New York Jets later this afternoon. Today, the Jets will match up with the New York Giants in the third of three exhibition games.
This is a game that the Jets starting units will be getting at least a quarter of work in. As usual, the health of the football team is the top priority. The Jets have taken some tough blows with Zach Wilson and Mekhi Becton this summer. After keeping everyone healthy, the Jets need to have a faster start on both sides of the football in comparison to the first two preseason games.
Starting with the run defense, it is vital that the Jets show some progress. It is quite possibly the biggest concern entering the season. If the Jets can contain the run, it will allow them to display their excess of pass-rushing talent.
Offensively, a better start relative to the first two games will be needed. In the first two preseason games, the Jets have scored just three points in each first half. With the starting unit, keeping it simple should help lead to success. Staying ahead on down and distance, sustaining balance, converting third downs, and ultimately moving the chains on a few of the series the first-team gets is key for the Jets in this one.
This will be the first time that the Jets’ new-look offensive line will have all five starters out there.
On both sides of the football, it will be exciting to see the Jets starters in one game before the start of the regular season.
Positional battles to watch one last time
In terms of final roster competition worth watching today, this is the final opportunity for all players battling. The roster will be cut down drastically in two days.
To begin, on the offensive side, Lawrence Cager is the headliner vying to be the team’s fourth tight end. It will be interesting to see if one of Zonovan Knight, Ty Johnson, or La’Mical Perine does enough to convince the Jets to go with four running backs.
Chris Streveler will once again be a focal point when he gets reps. It is imperative that Mike White has a good showing this afternoon.
Lastly, offensively, do young wide receivers Calvin Jackson, Irvin Charles, or Tarik Black ultimately show enough to make the final 53?
Then on defense, it all starts up front. Players worth keeping a close eye on today are Jonathan Marshall, Jabari Zuniga, Bradlee Anae, Tanzel Smart, and Nathan Shepherd.
On the second level, 2021 draft pick Hamsah Nasirildeen, veteran Marcell Harris, and special teams contributor Del’Shawn Phillips will all compete for the fifth linebacker spot.
In the secondary, the battle for the fourth safety role between Will Parks and Ashtyn Davis is a key one. At cornerback, players vying to be on this team who could help themselves today are Javelin Guidry, Justin Hardee, Isaiah Dunn, and Rachad Wildgoose.