NY Jets: Adjusting WR corps expectations after two weeks

The NY Jets' mysterious second-year receiver: Denzel Mims

Where does one even begin when describing the fog surrounding Denzel Mims’ outlook. At the end of 2020, it appeared as if Mims could enter 2021 with a starting gig. Instead, he spent his off-season fighting for snaps with the second-team offense.

For as talented of a player as the 6-foot-3, 207-pound Mims is, his playstyle is not exactly a perfect fit in Mike LaFleur’s offense. Nevertheless, the Jets cannot deny his ability to be a big-play receiver who can come down with any jump ball.  

Week 1, Mims only saw three snaps, including a 40-yard grab from Wilson. He was a coach’s decision inactive this past week, a peculiar decision given the Jets were already without Crowder.

At this point, who knows what Mims’ season outlook is. New York would love to get the player they drafted in the second round a year ago into the fold more, but it's hard to be optimistic about his future.

One can only hope moving forward that New York gets him more involved.

Some eye-opening numbers rounding out the NY Jets receivers

One of the more surprising outcomes of the first two weeks has been the usage of the other receivers on the roster. Specifically, Braxton Berrios, Keelan Cole, and Jeff Smith.

With Crowder out the first two weeks, Berrios has once again emerged as a solid spot starter out of the slot. In two games, he leads the team in targets (18) and receptions (12) by a substantial amount. His 124 receiving yards also lead the team, as Berrios has been Wilson’s favorite target to date.

Meanwhile, Cole has been absent from the offense entirely. The veteran receiver signed a one-year deal this off-season with Gang Green and has yet to record a reception this season.

Without a target through two weeks on 12 percent of offensive snaps, it’s hard to see Cole taking on a bigger role unless injuries force him into the starting lineup.

Last but certainly not least is Jeff Smith. Viewed as the final receiver to round out the unit, Smith has quickly proven to be a solid backend of the roster weapon. On 21 percent of offensive snaps, Smith has one reception for 35 yards on three targets.

No, the NY Jets receiving corps may not blow anyone away. No, there is not anyone who can make any quarterback look elite.

But at the end of the day, the outlook on the Jets 2021 receiving corps remains brighter than any over the past few seasons.