What Darron Lee needs for further development

A loyal reader asks what linebacker Darron Lee needs to work on towards the next step of his development with the New York Jets. Time to discuss over a hot cup of coffee.

Training camp is right around the corner as the New York Jets try to find some positives heading into the regular season. It’ll soon be all about positional battles, who has the upper hand under center, and how all the new additions to the coaching staff help develop all the young players on the roster.

In case you didn’t know, my Coffee with the Jets series is an open forum for any fans to submit questions as to which I’ll answer right here on The Jet Press. This time around, a loyal reader asks about linebacker Darron Lee and what he needs to work on to further his development.

Here is what Alan Schechter asked via Twitter:

Give us your thoughts on Darron Lee. He was very average in 2016. What does he have to do to take the next step in his development?

— Alan Schechter (@Alan_Schechter) July 2, 2017

Thanks for the question, Alan! Despite his off-the-field distraction this offseason, Lee needs to work on not only delivering where it matters most on the gridiron but also showing leadership. Let’s face it, the roster of the Jets is a young one as it’s important for him to learn from his mistakes and work on honing his craft as a consistent linebacker that also rallies the troops on defense when needed.

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Clearly, he has the skill and ability to get the job done but there comes a point where it boils down to being a leader among men.

As a first round pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, besides his impressive tackling stats (146) at Ohio State, his sophomore season with the Jets will be a true indicator if he’s ready to accept the spotlight as a consistent starter and be a leader in a locker room that is void of leadership.

Overall, that’s all Lee needs to step up and prove that he’s mature enough to handle such a big role on the Jets. Their defense will have a whole new look to it this upcoming season and since the Jets are rebuilding the right way, it’s imperative Lee take this golden opportunity for what it’s worth and make it his own. Step up, be a leader, and most importantly of all, make the headlines for all the right reasons.