NY Jets 2015 Spotlight: Jeremy Kerley

Wide receiver Jeremy Kerley of the NY Jets was the forgotten man in 2015. What happened to Kerley, and what should fans expect from him next season?

Prior to the 2015 season, Jeremy Kerley was a reliable if unspectacular slot receiver for the Jets. Following three consecutive seasons with at least 400+ receiving yards, many sportswriters expected Kerley to play a noteworthy role in the Jets’ offense. At the very least, Kerley should have emerged as a solid #3 receiver behind Brandon Marshall and Eric Decker.

However, the new coaching staff on the Jets decided to run the offense differently. Under head coach Todd Bowles and offensive coordinator Chan Gailey, Decker and Marshall ran the show. Both wide receivers posted over 1,000 yards.

Throughout the entire season, the Jets struggled (and ultimately failed) to find a third pass catching threat. The team had no true tight end (less than 100 receiving yards by tight ends all season), and never had a single running back or wide receiver (besides Marshall or Decker) amass even 400 receiving yards.

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Even in the midst of this climate, Kerley was unable to make a noticeable impact on the Jets’ offense.

Whether it was from a lack of ability or a lack of opportunity (most likely the latter), Kerley posted a career low 152 receiving yards in 2015. The lone bright spots from Kerley’s 2015 season were his contributions on special teams. Functioning as the team’s primary punt returner, he amassed over 400 return yards.

What’s next for Kerley? Should Jets fans expect a revival from the gritty receiver this upcoming season? Unfortunately, the odds of Kerley returning to the Jets next season are microscopic. Although he remains under contract, Kerley will undoubtedly be cut this offseason.

Regardless of how much some Jets fans may still believe in Kerley and his abilities, the new regime has relegated him to a backup role. His cap hit in 2016 is over $3 million, far more than the team can afford to pay a bench player.

More jets: NY Jets 2015 Spotlight: Nick Folk

By Week 1 of this upcoming season, Kerley will not be a member of the Jets. But at least Jets fans can be thankful for all the great memories and be hopeful that Kerley doesn’t decide to take his talents to New England.