Brian Winters had the best reason for missing Day 1 of Jets camp

Jets offensive lineman Brian Winters missed the first day of training camp. Given the circumstances, however, his coaches certainly understood.

Training camp for the New York Jets opened last week.

The start of training camp signals hope and new beginnings for every fan, every player, and every team.

This is particularly true for one Jets player.

.@bjwint67 had a very good reason for missing the first day of camp.

Help us welcome Nash Winters!! ❄️ pic.twitter.com/IFkp4GyvWL

— New York Jets (@nyjets) July 25, 2019

Offensive lineman Brian Winters missed the first day of training camp to be there for the birth of his son Nash. Head Coach Adam Gase may be a rigid disciplinarian, but its doubtful Winters faced any punishment for missing camp. After all, some things transcend sports.

Upon his return to training camp, Winters expressed some of his initial impressions of fatherhood in a press conference.

He acknowledges that fatherhood has been extremely challenging, observing that “these first couple days have been rough. I think I’ve gotten five hours of sleep in three days.”

In spite of the inevitable stress and fatigue, Winters is clearly enjoying being a father. He noted, “It’s exciting…I have another name to play for.”

The Jets are going to need every ounce of newly found excitement, energy, and toughness that Winters can offer them in 2019.

The Jets’ offensive line projects to be a passable unit this season, but nothing special. And their offensive line depth is a serious concern. This issue has been exacerbated by the news that backup offensive lineman Brent Qvale suffered a serious knee injury in training camp.  Early reports indicate that Qvale will not require surgery or be out all season, but it remains a serous blow to one of the Jets’ weak spots.

Jets fans are understandably excited about promising young quarterback Sam Darnold and premier free agent signing Le’Veon Bell, but an NFL offense is only as good as its offensive line play.

Hopefully the Jets offensive line gets the job done this season, with Winters leading the way.