Devin Smith injury cuts his chance short

The New York Jets got hit with another injury as wide receiver Devin Smith could miss the first six games of the regular season. So much so that it appears the injury will affect Smith’s bounce back year.

The New York Jets are going to need their 2015 class to take a gigantic leap in their development to help out the squad in 2016. According to multiple reports, wide receiver Devin Smith is still recovering from his ACL injury and will be missing training camp, preseason football and a major portion of the upcoming season.

Related Story: Top 5 players set for big contracts

The Jets used their second round pick on the speedy Ohio State wide receiver, with hopes of him translating his collegiate success in the pros. The hopes were that he could bring a dynamic vertical element to the Jets’ passing game. Unfortunately, due to injuries and lack of training camp reps, Smith wasn’t ready for the spotlight. Smith was limited to 12 games, before again, the injury bug came roaring back and by way of a ruptured ACL against the Tennessee Titans.

Smith was looking to prove the doubters wrong, who have been piling on criticism, and already the ‘bust’ label has been thrown around. Which by the way is completely ridiculous, he’s only in his second year, and his first season was marred by injuries, robbing him of precious and invaluable practice reps.

The problem for Smith is the NFL is a what can you do for me now league. So if Smith continues to go through the injury issues, other guys on the roster will rise up.

More from The Jet Press

• NY Jets should target TE Hunter Henry in free agency
• NY Jets: Why the team should target cornerback Shaquill Griffin
• NY Jets reportedly non-tendering linebacker Harvey Langi
• NY Jets: Why the team should not cut Jamison Crowder
• NY Jets should try to sign Kenny Golladay in free agency

One of those guys is wide receiver Quincy Enunwa, who could steal not only reps from Smith, but trust.

Which is just as important, especially for wide receivers with whoever their quarterback is.

In the organized team activities that were open to the media, head coach Todd Bowles didn’t address nor was he asked about Smith’s status heading into training camp.

So it’s safe to assume that his earlier comments that were provided by the Media Relations Department of the Jets are still status quo:

On when Devin Smith will return to practice…

Same thing. He’ll be wait and see. (It) won’t be in the spring.

must read: Todd Bowles dealt a tough card in 2016

Overall, 2016 was supposed to be the year Smith silenced his critics but unfortunately, that will have to wait until Week 7 or 8 most likely to see how he performs after rehabbing back to full health. It won’t be easy but Smith was always known for his desire to be the best. Hopefully when he returns, he won’t miss a beat and showcase his unique skill-set with the Jets’ offense.