New York Jets’ Fans Have Plenty To Be Hopeful For in 2014

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I have written several pieces here that were critical of the 2014 Jets. As a result, I’ve gotten my share of criticism as well. It’s all good, I want to hear what you guys think.  If I didn’t I wouldn’t bother to write. I’m a Jet Fan, and I enjoy discussing the pros and cons of Jet Nation.

With the Jets coming up on their second preseason game, it’s time to look at some of the things that Jet fans can get excited about. The Jets didn’t sit still in the off-season, they made some moves in free agency and brought in amazing number of drafted rookies (12).

Eric Decker came over from the Denver Broncos, and this signing is one to be excited about. Decker is a huge upgrade over anything the Jets had to offer at WR last season. Disregard the #1 or #2 designation, he’s made it clear through camp, he catches nearly everything thrown his way. Decker is going to be exciting to watch in Green and White this year.

Geno Smith begins his 2nd year as the starter for the Jets (no competition here) with Michael Vick being brought in as his back up. Reports on Smith out of Cortland have been promising. He bulked up a bit and came in this spring ready to play.  If Geno can take the leap and continue to develop during the season, he promises to be fun to watch. There is talk of Vick being involved in the wildcat, and while I’m not a fan of the wildcat, this might be interesting to watch.  Vick and Smith running around on the field at the same time may not be advisable, but it sure would complicate things for defenses.

Chris Johnson comes in from the Titans and changes the face of a very talented backfield. Not only is Johnson going to be exciting to watch in the run game, but he brings a flashy receiving style as well. It’s going to be fun to watch how the Jets use his versatility.  Along with Ivory and whomever else the Jets throw into the mix, the Jet Nation should be excited by the promise of a productive back field.

Muhammad Wilkerson and company. The defensive line should be dominant this season. They were fun to watch last season, but this year could be spectacular up front.  Karl Dunbar was hired in 2012 and has done a spectacular job developing the starters and the depth.  Sheldon Richardson alone promises to be a fun watch going into his second year. There’s a lot to be excited about across this front.

Demario Davis is developing into a fully rounded linebacker right before our eyes. Davis has been the standout in camp this season, showing increased quickness, and improved coverage skills. Add that to the non stop motor that he’s displayed since arriving on the Jet roster in 2012, and this could be a break out season for Davis. I’m looking forward to see if he can bring pressure this season as well.

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Tight End is an interesting unit as well. Though Jace Amaro has had his share of struggles through camp, he promises to be an excellent tight end once he makes some adjustments to a NFL offense. It should be interesting to watch as he settles in and gets comfortable. Jeff Cumberland is a player to watch as well this season, he could even have a breakout year with the Jets having several options at tight end. Zach Sudfeld has made some noise at camp, showing signs of learning how to use his size to get open. When the Jets run multiple tight end sets, it’ll be interesting to see how Mornhinweg includes Sudfeld in the mix.

The Jets made some moves this offseason. John Idzik has improved the overall talent on this team. There are things to be excited about this season. The team has its concerns as every NFL team does. Before long it will be time for this team to step it up and prove their talent on the grid iron. Time will tell how good or bad the 2014 Jets will be, but I think there is a lot to be hopeful about. Who else would you add to the list? Think there is a sleeper on the roster? Tell me about it.

Dec 22, 2013; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets defensive end Sheldon Richardson (91) reacts after being called for a personal foul in the first half against the Cleveland Browns during the game at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports