Kenyon Sadiq can still carve up Robert Saleh in limited Week 1 role

The New York Jets took a big swing when they selected tight end Kenyon Sadiq with the 16th overall pick. Sadiq has the tools to be a dynamic weapon for this offense, but his summer didn't go as planned.

He missed the bulk of training camp with a hernia injury, which caused him to lose out on a ton of meaningful reps. Despite that, he returned to practice last week, and offensive coordinator Frank Reich spoke highly of the rookie.

Speaking to the media on Thursday, Reich expressed that Sadiq has done a good job in practice and is getting into the flow of the offense.

"Kenyon [Sadiq] has done a very good job of integrating himself back in very quickly."

For a player who missed multiple weeks, this is a positive development ahead of his debut on Sunday, and fans should be surprised if Sadiq still makes his impact felt on the field.

Here's how Kenyon Sadiq can cook Robert Saleh's defense in Week 1

It's trending that Sadiq will play, but he likely won't get more than 15-20 snaps in this contest. Considering that he hasn't gotten many live game reps, the Jets likely won't put too much on his plate, but rest assured, he'll get some targets in this game. And his skill set is exactly what gives Robert Saleh's defenses trouble.

Saleh's defenses are known for aggressive and attacking fronts, but that leaves them susceptible to screens, which Jets fans should remember from Saleh's tenure in New York. Defensive linemen look to get upfield as fast as possible, but there are ways to expose that. In addition to their aggressive nature, Saleh likes to play mostly zone.

There will be soft spots in coverage, including plenty of drags and crossers that get open. Time and time again, athletic tight ends have given Saleh's defenses problems. When watching film, Reich and his staff likely saw the same thing.

Finding ways to get Sadiq out in open space should be in the game plan. His size (6'3", 241 pounds), and his speed (4.39 40-yard dash) should be something the Jets take advantage of.

Not only is Sadiq a mismatch, but the Titans may be without their best linebacker. Cedric Gray is in the concussion protocol after a UTV accident last weekend. He's officially been ruled out for the contest, and that's a big loss for them, as he's their best linebacker who brings speed to the second level.

While Sadiq won't be the main target in the passing game, fans shouldn't be shocked if he gets four-plus targets in this game. Whether that comes in 12 personnel, out in the slot, or even at fullback, the Jets will look to get him the ball, and his strengths play right into Tennessee's weakness.

As the season goes on, his role will increase. Week 1 will likely be his smallest role this campaign when active, but at the same time, it doesn't mean his impact won't be felt on the field. Fans should look at No. 16 when he takes the field, as New York will likely draw up some plays to get the ball in his hands.

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