Jets OL coach sees athleticism, potential in his group

The New York Jets are hoping for much improved play from their offensive line in 2019, and their new coach is already seeing it, thanks to their hard work.

A quick look at the roster for the New York Jets shows a bounty of offensive playmakers, but does the Gang Green have the blockers to allow those weapons to reach their lofty potential?

Thanks to some offseason additions, a new coaching staff, and improved growth and chemistry, the Jets should indeed see a positive change in the offensive trenches this season.

New offensive line coach Frank Pollack knows there is much work to do, but he likes what he sees so far from his unit (via team senior reporter Eric Allen):

Like every team I’ve been with, it’s a work in progress. There’s a lot to get better at. The guys are working really hard, we’re right where we need to be as far as that’s concerned. We’re continuing to master Coach Gase’s offense and increase our ability to work on our fundamentals and techniques that I’m teaching.

Pollack has already seen evidence of his players’ impressive athleticism, but he knows he’ll find out what they’re really made of when the pads start popping in training camp and game action:

You can see movement skills, you can see how they learn and how they work. You get a good feel for all of that stuff, but at the end of the day, once you put the pads on, it really separates the men from the boys, if you will. You get excited about guys’ movement skills, but a lot of guys go away when you put the pads on and a lot of guys rise to the occasion when you put the pads on. You get a good feel for them and how they work in the classroom, understanding the offensive processing. But pads is definitely the most important aspect of that.

Veterans Kelvin Beachum and Brandon Shell return to the starting lineup at the tackle spots, while Brian Winters will remain the starter at one of the guard positions. Jonotthan Harrison is expected to start again at center, while Kelechi Osemele, acquired this offseason via trade from the Oakland Raiders, should round out the starting squad at the other guard spot.

With a promising young quarterback in Sam Darnold, arguably the NFL’s most dynamic running back Le’Veon Bell, and a talented group of pass-catchers, the Jets could be primed for a huge season on offense.

But that will only happen if Pollack’s crew get the job done in the trenches.

What are your expectations for the Jets offensive line in 2019? Give us your take in the comment section!