Pennington named Jets starting QB
The biggest secret throughout rookie head coach Eric Mangini's first training camp is a mystery no longer. For a man that kept most information between him and his staff, he actually made an official announcement during the week between the third and fourth (and final) pre-season games.
Since the start of camp, Mangini made it clear that it was an open competition for all four quarterbacks. Chad Pennington had been the team's starter before suffering two shoulder injuries followed by subsequent surgeries last season. Patrick Ramsey was acquired from the Washington Redskins in the off season in exchange for a future sixth round draft pick. Kellen Clemens was drafted out of Oregon in round two. And Brooks Bollinger was last season's third stringer before being pressed into the starting job due to injuries.
No one ran away from the pack, but Pennington showed the most during practice and in two exhibition games. (He was excused from the second game to be with his ill father) Although he did not lead the team to any scores during the games, he was in control and moved the ball. The Jets haven't exactly lit it up offensively with any of the four behind center.
If Pennington can stay healthy, he gives the Jets the best chance for success. He has been a winner previously and has led the team to the playoffs, and has a post season win under his belt. But that was with a better cast around him and before the two injuries to his throwing shoulder.
Old reliable running back Curtis Martin will not be there to carry the offense. At least for the first six weeks of the regular season. He has been on the Physically Unable to Perform list since camp started, still recovering from December knee surgery. There are questions if he will ever return. For now, the backfield will have to get by with Kevan Barlow, Derrick Blaylock, Cedric Houston and rookie Leon Washington. Not exactly cause for a defense to go 'eight in the box.'
With the lack of a running game, this will put more pressure on Pennington to move the chains through the air. He has a serviceable set of receivers with old friend Laverneus Coles, Jericcho Cotchery, Justin MaCareins and tight end Chris Baker. Last season's bust Doug Jolley was sent to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for an undisclosed future draft choice.
The defense will be on the field a lot more than usual with a mediocre to weak offense that will undoubtedly have many 'three-and-out' series'. A new 3-4 alignment will take time to get accustomed to the assignments, especially with NT Dewayne Robertson learning a new position. The linebacking corps is strong with Jonathan Vilma and Victor Hobson leading the way. The secondary was a weak link last season and may take a step back with the loss of free agent departure Ty Law (10 interceptions).
Special teams will become extremely important to a team that may have a low scoring offense and tired defense. Drives that stall may turn into many long range field goal attempts. Second year place kicker Mike Nugent had a good rookie season and needs to remain consistent.
Punter Ben Graham will get many opportunities to show that last season is the norm for him. The Australian-rules football player had an effective first season in the NFL.
The Jets are in a rebuilding mode and their record this season should reflect that. The new coaching staff seems to have a strong hold on the team and is headed in the right direction. Chad Pennington will be behind center opening day in Tennessee. How long he remains in that position is anyone's guess.