Jets 2018 Training Camp Profile: DL Mike Pennel

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - DECEMBER 24: Mike Pennel #98 of the New York Jets pumps up the crowd against the Los Angeles Chargers during the first half of an NFL game at MetLife Stadium on December 24, 2017 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Steven Ryan/Getty Images)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - DECEMBER 24: Mike Pennel #98 of the New York Jets pumps up the crowd against the Los Angeles Chargers during the first half of an NFL game at MetLife Stadium on December 24, 2017 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Steven Ryan/Getty Images) /
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Heading into training camp with the New York Jets, veteran Mike Pennel looks to establish himself as a veteran leader in his second season with the team.

The New York Jets decided on going younger on the team especially on defense ever since they started their rebuild. They signed Mike Pennel to a three-year $10.5 million dollar contract. Since 2014, when he first started playing for the Green Bay Packers, he was a huge contributor. Besides what he brings to the gridiron, the Jets also expect Pennel to be a locker room leader for all the experience he brings to the table.

By signing Pennel to the extension, he brings young depth to help in the long run. Pennel brings that tough mindset and demeanor to the defensive line which should hopefully help them achieve more this upcoming season as a positional group.

Here is a look at Pennel’s complete profile as he heads into his second training camp for Gang Green.

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2017 SEASON REVIEW

Playing in 16 games for the Jets, Pennel totaled 35 tackles. He fit right in the mix of the 3-4 defense that head coach Todd Bowles has been known to use. He helped out a lot in the run game in getting key stops when the Jets needed it.

2018 SEASON OUTLOOK

Having Williams and McLendon as other veteran leaders, Pennel will be able to bring more knowledge to the rookies and mostly be used in special defensive packages. Pennel has only been in the league now going into his fifth season but has a lot of potential to be a steady contributor. He will likely be used mostly on run-stopping plays on defense.

TRAINING CAMP PREDICTION

Pennel is in position to be a starter or a versatile backup on the depth chart. He is a very smart and gritty type of player who should help on a consistent basis. He is coming into training camp at 6 feet 4 inches tall weighing in at over 330 pounds. Expect to see him make the final roster of the Jets once training camp is in the books.