New York Jets’ WR Ryan Spadola Humble Despite Excellent Training Camp

Aug. 18, 2013; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets wide receiver Ryan Spadola (85) carries the ball as Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Mike Harris (20) and defensive back Marcus Burley (43) defend during the second half at MetLife Stadium. Jets win 37-13. Mandatory Credit: Debby Wong-USA TODAY Sports

The preseason can be broken up into two sections on all teams, you have the “haves” and the “have-nots”. The haves are your veterans, and regular starters, that are not in danger of losing their roster spots. The “have-nots”, on the other hand, are the young players, draftees and otherwise, that are fighting every day to live their dream, to make an NFL roster.

Ryan Spadola obviously entered the preseason as a member of that second group. Undrafted, played for a small school, Ryan was not a guy that was guaranteed a roster spot by any means. After working hard, most would agree that he has moved himself up to the “haves”, leading the team in receiving with 13 receptions for 216 yards and 1 TD. He has been included in special teams as well, leading most to believe that today will come to an end, and that Spadola will still be on the roster.

Despite all of the praise that has been heaped upon him, Ryan Spadola has stayed humble. Listen to what he had to say when he was asked about his performance following the game against the Eagles:

Overall, I think our offense did pretty well. Our offensive line did a great job of creating a lot of running room for our offense to move the ball on the ground. I think that really helped us out offensively in the air. Matt (Simms) was able to find some open space in the secondary and (we) had some big plays. We were able to be balanced and I think that kept their defense on their heels. We were able to drive at them all night and come away with a nice victory.

See how he talked about the team, rather than himself? Pretty mature for a young man like himself.

Even when asked if he felt he deserves a roster spot, Ryan didn’t take the bait:

I think I put my best foot forward. I worked hard every single day. I (got) better day-in and day-out. Now, everything is left out there on the field and it’s the coaches’ and front office’s decision. I really can’t control anything else. We’ll find out in the next couple of days if what I did was enough.

If the league had more guys like Ryan Spadola in it, the NFL would be a much better place.