Thoughts and Observations from the First Weekend of Jets Training Camp

July 29, 2012; Cortland, NY, USA; New York Jets running back Joe McKnight (25) runs up field while breaking the tackle of a host of defensive players during training camp at SUNY Cortland. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-US PRESSWIRE

Evening Jets fans. Training camp is rolling, we are through the first weekend. There has been great coverage from all of the beat reporters that are there, as well as from our own JETSerious with his live coverage.  If you did not get a chance to read the coverage of JETSerious today, take a look at it by clicking here.

Here are some thoughts and observations taken from this, the first weekend of Jets camp:

• I really believe this situation with Jeremy Kerley is worth keeping an eye on.  Yes, he is injured, and that happens.  But, coach Ryan doesn’t typically call players out in public, so when he does, you know it is something serious.  Despite his ability to return punts, if Kerley doesn’t step up quickly, it’s not impossible that he will lose his spot.  Keep an eye on this.
• Joe McKnight and Bilal Powell are having a good camp so far at running back.  Not many were very high on Powell, so a good sign for him, and they will be looking at Joe McKnight as the change of pace to Greene.
• Aaron Maybin has been a standout on defense.  We predicted that he will record 10-15 sacks this year, and Rex said today that Aaron is on his way to being on the field more often, which will only mean good things for the New York Jets.
• Unfortunately to his throng of fans, Tim Tebow has been inconsistent.  Not that it isn’t unexpected, Tim Tebow has never been known as a great practice player.  He has already seen a bit of mocking from the Jets fans, after they watched him hold the ball too long and make bad throws.  Welcome to New York Tim Tebow.
• It’s great to see that D’Brickashaw Ferguson looks fit and is blocking well.  The offensive line was a huge disappointment last season, and will be a key to a return to success.  In news that Jets fans won’t like, Jeff Otah isn’t sure that he will pass his physical before the July 31 deadline.  Most of us want to see him beat out Wayne Hunter, so his inability to pass his physical is quite disappointing.
• The quarterbacks need to be more consistent, but it is early.  Mark Sanchez has clearly shown himself as the number one quarterback of this team, as well he should be.
• A fan favorite, especially on Twitter, was a big standout today.  Rex Ryan acknowledged the play of Damon Harrison along the defensive line.  We see big things from Damon Harrison, and coach Ryan acknowledging his work today is a good start towards him making the final 53.
• For the Rex Ryan defense to work, you need good defensive backs.  We know about Revis and Cromartie, but one guy at corner that has been all over the field is Ellis Lankster.  The more the merrier at defensive back, so hopefully Lankster’s play will continue.
• The kicking competition seems about even, with maybe a slight lead to Josh Brown.  They both have missed a few so far, and there stats are about even.  But it seems like TJ Conley is doing everything he can to keep the punting job.  The punter needs to be a weapon, so if Conley can step up, that will work for me.
• Antonio Allen had two interceptions today.  We all know that the Jets’ safety play has left a lot to be desired, so improvement from any source will only mean good things.
• Everyone has been impressed with the play of Chaz Schilens so far.  He was even included in the discussion of being on the outside, with Holmes in the slot if Kerley doesn’t improve.  Mark Sanchez needs weapons he can trust, so again, the more the merrier.
• I am still not so sure about this Darrelle Revis injury, but more on that in a post tomorrow morning.

Some good things are happening so far at Jets training camp.  Keep in mind, it’s early.  Thanks to JETSerious for his reports, one more to come tomorrow.  Stay tuned right here at the JET Press, where we will be covering camp all month long.