2008 New York Jets Preliminary Report
The New York Jets probably didn’t spend the offseason in full English, as they’re used to not winning Super Bowls or the playoffs. While the team occasionally wins division titles (most recently in 2002), you have to go back to 1968 to find their last championship victory. In reality, the team’s first and only championship win was a record, as they became the first AFL team to defeat an NFL team by beating the Baltimore Colts. The 2007 season was less impressive as they sank even lower than 2006, posting a 4-12 record. The 49th season is coming… Have the Jets prepared to make this season the beginning of the change?
One way to find out is to examine the NFL draft record and any other signings that have taken place in the off-season. The team got off to a good start by signing high-profile players like offensive lineman Alan Faneca, linebacker Calvin Pace, and right tackle Damien Woody. This large amount of money no doubt influenced some of the team’s draft picks. During the 2008 NFL Draft, the team focused on filling the gap and strengthening key positions. Some of the more memorable signings included Vernon Gholston as a defensive end from Ohio State, Dustin Keller from Purdue as a tight end, Dwight Lowery as a cornerback from San José State, and quarterback Erik Ainge from Tennessee. The team also acquired the talents of wide receiver Marcus Henry from Kansas and offensive tackle Nate Garner from Arkansas.
How have die-hard New York fans fared in the New York Jets draft picks? Fans seem split on whether to blame the team’s management or just a lack of strong players. Some fans believe the Jets don’t have to be doing anything wrong, but most big-name players are opposed to coming to the notorious New York team. Draft-wise, most fans expected a powerhouse wide receiver pick, but were disappointed.
Vernon Gholston was a popular choice with most of the loyalists as he is a fast and aggressive player and is expected to be excellent early in his career. Dustin Keller received a mixed reaction, positive about his abilities but questioning why he was promoted to a draft pick. Dwight Lowery and Eric Ainge got good reviews overall, particularly Ainge, as another quarterback was behind. Marcus Henry was named as part of one of the best team offenses in the game in 2007 and is tackling the “wide” position in this draft pick. Tight end Nate Garner also drew some interest, though he seemed to instill less confidence as a starter and more as an injury backup later in the season.
Pundits predict the New York Jets will continue to restructure through 2009, while New England easily takes the AFC East division. Will the Jets improve their previous season with these draft picks? Along with powerhouses Alan Faneca and Calvin Pace, you might be surprised by the team’s momentum this season.