Re: Jets safety Kerry Rhodes: “We Will Be The Best Defense”
In Rhodes’ opinion, “We will be the best defense in the league this year. I feel for the offenses we’re gonna face.”
And outside linebacker Calvin Pace echoed that statement, saying, “I don’t think you’ll find a better team on paper.”
When I heard this on ESPN today, I started laughing at how delusional these Jets players are. Lets break down the "best" defense in the league shall we.
D-Line - Aside from Kris Jenkins, their D-line is pedestrian. Shaun Ellis is a 4-3 guy (on the decline) and Kenyon Coleman is lucky he is still in the league.
MLB's - Bart Scott is an upgrade over Eric Barton but Scott won't be able to reap the benefits of having Ray Lewis getting all the attention. In fact, Scott becomes the leader of that defense. On the other hand, Harris had a fantastic rookie year but didn't have a great second year probably because of his early season injury. It's comical when they put a former DE in Bowens at MLB. What a joke.
OLB's - They're nothing special and shouldn't scare opposing QB's. In fact, these aren't players that are going to take over games. Aside from grabbing 8.5 sacks in 2006, Bryan Thomas has been a disappointment. On the other side, is Calvin Pace who couldn't cut as a 4-3 defense end with the Cardinals. Of course, he gets a huge contract after having one decent season playing LB for the Cardinals. Looking at Pace's stats tell you he had a pretty good year with the Jets. However, like I said before, these guys won't take over games.
CB's - Aside from Revis, these CB's are going to get torched unless Sheppard resurrects his career. Remember, this guy was benched in favor of Joselio Hanson. Dwight Lowery had some moments but he had his rookie mistakes as well. Lastly, David Barrett loved getting torched when he was with the Cardinals and really hasn't been special with the Jets. Their reserves shouldn't scare anybody.
S's - Rhodes is their best player and that's about it. They brought in Leonard because he is familiar with Rex Ryans' defense and could possibly start. Last year, it seemed like Mangini couldn't make up his mind when he started different guys at safety. Sometimes it would be Eric Smith and other times it was Abram Elam. Elam isn't there anymore so it's up to Leonard or Smith to take over that spot.
In the end, the Jets will have a good defense because Rex Ryan is a very good defensive coach. But to think they are the most talented on paper? That is a laughable. Also, they are going to get torched twice a year playing the Pats now that Brady is back. Also, factor in the additions of Galloway, Taylor and the multiple TE's they brought in. I can't wait for week 2.
*I can't believe I just wasted my time analyzing the Jets defense.
