5 NY Jets players who need to impress against the Buccaneers

4. Joe Tippmann, C, NY Jets

Three weeks ago, Joe Tippmann was taking snaps exclusively with the third-team offense, and it seemed as though the Jets had no plans to see him start his rookie season. Plans changed, evidently.

Following a pair of impressive preseason performances, Tippmann has started splitting reps with Connor McGovern as the first-team center. He also worked as the first-team left guard on Wednesday with Laken Tomlinson sidelined.

Tippmann has managed to force his way into the starting conversation, but the Jets still prefer a veteran center to pair with Rodgers. That leaves McGovern as the favorite for the job.

The fact that the Jets are giving Tippmann first-team reps, though, suggests they see him as a viable starting candidate. Another impressive showing against Tampa Bay could push the Jets to reconsider their plans for their rookie second-round pick.

3. Jason Brownlee, WR, NY Jets

Jason Brownlee quickly established himself as the early training camp darling following a series of impressive practices and highlight-reel catches. It's been tough sledding for him as of late, though.

Brownlee's momentum has slowed down in practice, and he hasn't been able to make much of an impact in either preseason game. He caught just two passes for 10 yards against the Panthers.

Meanwhile, Malik Taylor has seen his stock rise, and fellow undrafted rookie Xavier Gipson has made waves on special teams. Both players are competing with Brownlee for the sixth wide receiver spot.

Even if the Jets carry six wide receivers, which isn't a guarantee, Brownlee might not be the favorite at this stage. He needs a big game against the Bucs to remind everyone what the early hype was all about.