New York Jets: Last team practice in the books

Monday’s training camp practice for the New York Jets was a sloppy one, especially for Geno Smith. The once starting quarterback is unfortunately now down and out due to the shocking news regarding his broken jaw injury. Day 13 is here is in the books and it’s the last before the first preseason game against the Detroit Lions on Thursday night. Here’s to hoping that the Jets come up with a backup plan at quarterback as they prepare to see what they will look like against another NFL team.

Before his injury, Smith threw two interceptions and ended Monday’s practice with three consecutive touchdown passes to Brandon Marshall in the red zone. Two of those beautifully delivered over Darrelle Revis. Honestly, Smith and Marshall look awfully good together out there.

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Naysayers continue to bash Smith for his first two seasons but now with his unfortunate injury, we may never see if he would bounce back this year until later on. Marshall is a giant out there and his stated commitment to the Jets for the remainder of his career has me excited for what he’s going to bring to the field this season.

So as far as the quarterback and offense go, I’m a bit cautious of it all coming together but hopeful things will be okay. Part of that caution is the remaining concern at starting right guard on the offensive line. I’m not sold on Willie Colon, especially after watching him yesterday at camp. He looks a tick slower than the rest of the line both during a play and going through drills.

His body language is also off to me, I don’t see the same engagement from him as I see from D’Brickashaw Ferguson and Nick Mangold. I hope he proves me and everyone else wrong because no matter who starts at quarterback, they will need all the protection they can get.

The defense looks solid as usual. Muhammad Wilkerson is still in question for the opener with hamstring issues, but he was out there yesterday in positional drills. Don’t expect more from him today at practice, which by the way, was closed to fans due to weather. Marcus Gilchrist is looking like the free safety we need in the secondary and I’m throwing myself on the Gilchrist bandwagon. He’s got little choice but to step up with the lack of depth behind him with Antonio Allen and Dee Milliner out due to injuries. Although Milliner is a cornerback, overall depth in the secondary puts every starter on notice to remain as healthy and productive as possible.

So what is going to happen heading into the Jets’ first preseason game of the season? All eyes will be at quarterback to see what Fitzpatrick brings to the table with the starting unit. Will also be good to see what Petty does under center too as I’m sure he’ll get some playing time as well.

August 11, 2015; Florham Park, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) during training camp at the Atlantic Health Jets Training Center. Mandatory Credit: John Munson/THE STAR-LEDGER via USA TODAY Sports

Even though it’s only preseason, I’m going to say this particular string of games is important for the Jets because of the team they are fielding this year. It’s a win now team even with a big question mark at quarterback. Most of the key players are older and don’t have a long window for winning. Training camp will continue to be intense from a standpoint of making sure everyone is prepared and ready to take on another team in Detroit that’s looking to prove it’s a contender as well.

Next: New York Jets release first unofficial depth chart of the season

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