The Associated Press
NEW YORK JETS (8-8)
New Faces: WR Eric Decker, RB Chris Johnson, QB Michael Vick, RT Breno Giacomini, CB Dimitri Patterson, LB Jason Babin, rookie S Calvin Pryor, rookie TE Jace Amaro, ST coordinator Thomas McGaughey.
Key Losses: QB Mark Sanchez, CB Antonio Cromartie, WR Santonio Holmes, RT Austin Howard, TE Kellen Winslow Jr., S Ed Reed, WR-KR Josh Cribbs, ST coordinator Ben Kotwica.
Strengths: DL, ILB, RB, K.
Weaknesses: CB, QB, WR.
What’s New: Jets trying to get Smith to be more comfortable using legs on plays to make things happen when options fail downfield. Smith doesn’t have Vick’s speed or elusiveness, but actually led Jets with six TDs rushing last season. OC Marty Mornhinweg could implement more read-option or wildcat plays with Smith and occasionally Vick.
Expectations: A lot will hinge on whether Smith can make significant leap organization is hoping for, or Rex Ryan could be looking for new job and Jets searching for next QB. Smith was solid in training camp while being given every opportunity to succeed and will be counted on to reverse dismal numbers — 12 TDs, 21 INTS — from rookie year. Additions of Decker and Johnson give Smith viable playmakers, something Jets might need if they get into scoring slugfests as opponents exploit shaky secondary.
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