NEW YORK JETS DAILY CLIPS

September 2, 2014

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Table of Contents

ASSOCIATED PRESS ................................................................................................................................................ 2

Idzik: Cutting Patterson was 'best thing for Jets' (Dennis Waszak) ........................................................................... 2

Jets sign CB Adams, LB Edds, claim WR Powell (Dennis Waszak) .............................................................................. 3

NEWSDAY .............................................................................................................................................................. 4

Source: Stephen Hill works out for Carolina Panthers on Monday (Kimberley Martin) ........................................... 4

Rex Ryan: Stephen Hill didn't take advantage of his chances (Kimberley Martin) .................................................... 5

Jets add cornerback Phillip Adams, cut Ellis Lankster (Kimberley Martin) ................................................................ 5

THE RECORD .......................................................................................................................................................... 6

Jets notes: Rex Ryan on Stephen Hill's release (J.P. Pelzman) .................................................................................. 6

Jets: No panic with secondary (J.P. Pelzman) ............................................................................................................ 7

STAR-LEDGER ......................................................................................................................................................... 8

Jets sign CB Phillip Adams, release WR Quincy Enunwa, put CB LeQuan Lewis on practice squad (Darryl Slater) ... 8

Rex Ryan 'very encouraged' by Antonio Allen's progress, still unsure about Dee Milliner for opener (Darryl Slater) ................................................................................................................................................................................... 9

Derek Carr, Raiders rookie QB, to face Jets' troubled secondary in opener, per report (Darryl Slater) ................. 10

Jets GM John Idzik: 'I would call Dimitri Patterson a legitimate cornerback. That's why we signed him' (Darryl Slater) ...................................................................................................................................................................... 10

NJ.COM ................................................................................................................................................................ 12

Rex Ryan says Jets had seen enough of Stephen Hill (Dom Cosentino) .................................................................. 12

Why the Jets cut cornerback Ellis Lankster to bring back linebacker A.J. Edds (Dom Cosentino) ........................... 13

NEW YORK POST .................................................................................................................................................. 14

SNY has new analysts for Jets coverage (Justin Terranova) .................................................................................... 14

No, the Jets’ poor CB depth still doesn’t faze Idzik or Rex (Brian Costello) ............................................................ 14

NEW YORK DAILY NEWS ...................................................................................................................................... 16

John Idzik has no regrets with CB Dimitri Patterson as NY Jets will have hands full facing star-studded QBs (Seth Walder) .................................................................................................................................................................... 16

NEW YORK TIMES ................................................................................................................................................ 17

Idzik Says Jets Have No Regrets in Cutting Patterson (Ben Shpigel) ....................................................................... 17

WALL STREET JOURNAL ....................................................................................................................................... 19

Jets Can't Seem to Turn the Corner (Alex Raskin) ................................................................................................... 19

ESPN NEW YORK .................................................................................................................................................. 20

Ryan, Idzik explain Hill, Patterson cuts (Rich Cimini) ............................................................................................... 20

For an encore, 'Big Snacks' wants sacks (Rich Cimini) ............................................................................................. 21

Daily Clips Cont.

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MONDAY’S SPORTS TRANSACTIONS .................................................................................................................... 23

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Idzik: Cutting Patterson was 'best thing for Jets' (Dennis Waszak) Associated Press September 1, 2014

http://pro32.ap.org/article/idzik-cutting-patterson-was-best-thing-jets

NEW YORK (AP) — John Idzik and the New York Jets thought it was simply time to cut ties with Dimitri Patterson.

Despite a thin secondary, the Jets cut the veteran cornerback Saturday in a move that capped a bizarre week involving a player the team had expected to be a starter.

"In the end, it just felt appropriate that we move on from Dimitri," Idzik said during a conference call Monday. "I think that was the best thing for the Jets."

Patterson was suspended last week by the team after the Jets said he went missing before the preseason game against the Giants on Aug. 22 without speaking to anyone in the organization.

Patterson later — in a statement through the media rather than the team — said the Jets' claims were "completely false." He added that agent Drew Rosenhaus was, in fact, in contact with the team for several hours before the game. Idzik, in the general manager's first comments since cutting Patterson, said the organization sat down with him and gathered all the facts of the situation before ultimately deciding to part ways.

"We felt it wasn't good for the team to go forward," Idzik said. "Pure and simple."

Idzik declined to offer details of Patterson's explanation for his absence, and neither Patterson nor Rosenhaus have revealed any reasons.

"Well, we don't operate too much on statements," Idzik said. "I prefer direct communication. And that way, if something is quoted or something is said, especially in this information age where things can fly out pretty quickly or they're segmented, you always like to hear it directly from, in this case, the player. That's what we did.

"We heard him out and he heard us out and then we acted how we thought it was appropriate given the circumstances."

When the Jets signed Patterson in April, the plan was that he would start opposite second-year cornerback Dee Milliner. With Patterson gone and Milliner still sidelined with a high ankle sprain and uncertain to play in the season opener against Oakland, the Jets are scrambling in the secondary.

Rex Ryan said "it's still too early to tell" if Milliner will be ready, so there's a possibility safety-turned cornerback Antonio Allen, recovering from a concussion, could be in the mix to start opposite Darrin Walls, usually a backup. The Jets have also made several moves at the cornerback spot over the last few days, including signing Phillip Adams, claiming Leon McFadden off waivers, and releasing Ellis Lankster and LeQuan Lewis, who was later re-signed to the practice squad.

Despite all the uncertainty, Ryan insisted there's "no question" he's comfortable with the group of cornerbacks with whom he's entering the season.

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"I think when this thing gets kicked up for real, we absolutely have no excuses," he said. "We'll line up and play. We feel good about the players that we do have, and, shoot, the great thing is we get to prove it, and it starts on Sunday in front our home crowd, so we will all get to see it."

Given the way the Patterson situation played out, Idzik was asked if he regretted not signing a "legitimate" cornerback in the offseason, when more high-profile players such as Vontae Davis, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and even Darrelle Revis were available.

"I would call Dimitri Patterson a legitimate cornerback," Idzik said. "I mean, that's why we signed him. We liked the player. We interviewed the player. We don't look back. There's no regret. Again, we're in a people business and you really can't anticipate some things that may happen."

The Jets also had big plans for wide receiver Stephen Hill when they drafted him in the second round out of Georgia Tech in 2012. But Hill struggled with injuries and inconsistency, finishing the last two seasons on injured reserve. He was also cut Saturday, leading some to wonder if the Jets gave up on him too soon.

"I think we gave Stephen plenty of opportunity," Ryan said. "He had more snaps than any receiver through camp. But at the end of the day, a lot goes into it."

Such as being able to play a role on special teams, something Hill didn't do while others such as Greg Salas, Jalen Saunders and Saalim Hakim did.

"We certainly didn't give up on Stephen or anybody else," Ryan said. "We provide the opportunity to make the team and some guys reached out and took it and other guys, it never worked out for yet."

Hill's agent Alan Herman criticized the Jets for not putting Hill in a good position to thrive, citing the unstable quarterback situations the last two seasons.

"Certainly, he has a right to his opinion, but, if anything, I believe that I do support all of our players," Ryan said. "I understand it's probably a difficult situation at the time and I certainly wish Stephen the best.

"I have skin like an armadillo. I'll take whatever they throw at me."

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Jets sign CB Adams, LB Edds, claim WR Powell (Dennis Waszak) Associated Press September 1, 2014

http://pro32.ap.org/article/jets-sign-cb-adams-lb-edds-claim-wr-powell

NEW YORK (AP) — The New York Jets signed cornerback Phillip Adams, adding depth to their thin secondary, re-signed linebacker A.J. Edds and claimed speedy wide receiver Walter Powell off waivers from Arizona.

In a flurry of moves Monday, the Jets also released special teams ace Ellis Lankster and a pair of draft picks — linebacker Jeremiah George and wide receiver Quincy Enunwa — to make room on the 53-man roster. They also signed cornerback LeQuan Lewis to the practice squad.

Adams, a 2010 seventh-round draft pick by San Francisco out of South Carolina State, spent the summer with Seattle — his second stint with the Seahawks — and was released Saturday. He has 66 total tackles and three interceptions in parts of four seasons with the 49ers, Patriots, Seahawks and Raiders

Lewis was released Sunday after the Jets claimed cornerback Leon McFadden off waivers from Cleveland.

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"We feel good about the two young men that we picked up," coach Rex Ryan said of Adams and McFadden. "We have a history with them. Albeit, obviously, John (Idzik) with Adams in Seattle. Then, Mike Pettine & Co. in Cleveland with Leon McFadden. So we are familiar with those two new guys, as well."

Edds spent training camp with the Jets and had a terrific summer before being among the team's final cuts. He provides depth at inside linebacker behind David Harris and Demario Davis.

Powell was a sixth-rounder by the Cardinals out of Murray State in May, and had six catches for 106 yards in the preseason. He was also Arizona's top kick returner this summer, averaging 25.7 yards on seven returns.

The move to cut ties with Lankster was a bit of a surprise since he was a key contributor on special teams and was a primary backup in the secondary. He played the last three years with the Jets after being a seventh-round pick by Buffalo in 2009.

George was a fifth-round pick from Iowa State, and Enunwa was a sixth-rounder out of Nebraska.

Linebacker Tim Fugger, sidelined with a knee injury, was also waived from the injured reserve list, according to the NFL's transaction wire.

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NEWSDAY

Source: Stephen Hill works out for Carolina Panthers on Monday (Kimberley Martin) Newsday September 1, 2014

http://www.newsday.com/sports/football/jets/stephen-hill-to-work-out-for-carolina-panthers-on-monday-1.9200217

The Jets may have given up on Stephen Hill, but it didn't take long for their former second-round pick to garner interest on the open market.

The former Jet worked out for the Carolina Panthers on Monday, a source confirmed to Newsday.

The Jets waived Hill on Saturday after two disappointing seasons and a so-so preseason. And though he went unclaimed, there clearly is interest in the 6-5 receiver.

The Panthers, who parted ways with Steve Smith, are desperate for receiving help. And Hill, obviously, is desperate for a new home.

The Jets moved up to draft him 43rd overall in 2012, despite knowing that Hill would be a project given his college system.

The Georgia Tech product ended each of his first two seasons on injured reserve and caught only 45 passes for 594 yards and four touchdowns in 23 games. He played his final game in a Jets uniform on Thursday night, catching one pass for 13 yards and dropping another in a blowout loss to the Eagles.

Shortly after Saturday's wave of cuts, Hill's agent, Alan Herman, told Newsday he expected the Panthers or the receiver-needy Browns (who are coached by former Jets defensive coordinator Mike Pettine) to show interest in his client.

Herman, a resident of Jericho, also blasted the Jets for giving up on Hill and not putting the young receiver in a position to succeed.

Former Jet Jerricho Cotchery is currently on Carolina's roster, along with first-round pick Kelvin Benjamin.

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Rex Ryan: Stephen Hill didn't take advantage of his chances (Kimberley Martin) Newsday September 1, 2014

http://www.newsday.com/sports/football/jets/rex-ryan-stephen-hill-didn-t-take-advantage-of-his-chances-1.9201433

Stephen Hill got all the chances he needed, Rex Ryan said. He just didn't take advantage of his opportunities.

The Jets coach wished his former receiver well Monday during a conference call, but Ryan also laid out the cold, hard facts regarding Hill's release.

"We certainly didn't give up on Stephen or anybody else," Ryan said, noting that Hill, a 2012 second-round pick, received more snaps than any other receiver during camp and did not contribute on special teams. "We provide the opportunity to make a team, and some guys reached out and took it. And other guys, it never worked out for you."

The Jets waived the 6-5 Hill on Saturday after two disappointing seasons and a so-so preseason. He went unclaimed. He worked out for Carolina on Monday, a source confirmed to Newsday.

Told that Hill's agent, Alan Herman, criticized the organization for not doing right by his client, Ryan said: "Certainly, he has a right to his opinion. But if anything, I believe that I do support all of our players. But again, I understand it is probably a difficult situation at the time and I certainly wish Stephen the best.”

Jet streams

The Jets were awarded former Cardinals receiver Walter Powell off waivers. Powell, a sixth-round pick by Arizona in this year's draft, had six receptions for 106 yards in the preseason. He also was used on special teams. To make room for Powell, the Jets released rookie linebacker Jeremiah George, a fifth-round pick . . . Rookie receiver Quincy Enunwa was waived to make room for cornerback Phillip Adams. Enunwa and George are expected to be signed to the practice squad.

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Jets add cornerback Phillip Adams, cut Ellis Lankster (Kimberley Martin) Newsday September 1, 2014

http://www.newsday.com/sports/football/jets/jets-add-cornerback-phillip-adams-cut-ellis-lankster-1.9201676

The Jets continue to try to patch their depleted secondary.

On Monday, they added 26-year-old cornerback Phillip Adams, who played for the Raiders the past two seasons, making four starts in 31 games. He spent time in camp with Seattle this summer and was one of its final roster cuts Saturday.

Adams also has played for the 49ers and Patriots. In 53 games, he has 51 tackles (11 on special teams), eight passes defended and three interceptions.

The Adams signing came a day after the Jets were awarded former Browns cornerback Leon McFadden off waivers. To make room for McFadden on the roster, they released LeQuan Lewis but signed him to their practice squad.

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But Rex Ryan's makeshift secondary just might catch a break in Week 1. The Raiders plan to start rookie quarterback Derek Carr instead of veteran Matt Schaub (elbow injury).

Even before the Carr news was made official, however, Ryan expressed confidence in his merry-go-round at cornerback. Asked on a conference call if he's comfortable with this inexperienced group, he said: "Oh, no question about it."

Ryan's confidence notwithstanding, there still are plenty of reasons to be concerned:

Starter Dee Milliner still is nursing a high ankle sprain and it seems unlikely that he'll play Week 1. When asked about Milliner's status, Ryan would only say "it's too early to tell."

Antonio Allen, the young safety the Jets converted to cornerback, has been sidelined by a concussion. And although Ryan said Allen had "an excellent day" while wearing a red non-contact jersey during Friday's practice, it's unclear how Allen will feel by Sunday.

McFadden, a 2013 third-round draft pick of the Browns, had a league-high eight penalties in the preseason.

To add depth to their linebacker corps, the Jets re-signed A.J. Edds, whom they cut Saturday, and released veteran corner Ellis Lankster. Though Lankster had more of an impact on special teams (second in tackles behind Nick Bellore), his departure shows the secondary is very much in flux.

Injuries can't be predicted, but they should be expected in a game with a 100-percent injury rate, as Ryan likes to point out. To compound the problem, the Jets signed veteran corner Dimitri Patterson to replace Antonio Cromartie, then cut him before the regular season.

The Jets released Patterson on Saturday, less than a week after he was suspended for going AWOL for 48 hours and missing a preseason game. Patterson later denied that his absence was unexcused in an interview with ESPN.

General manager John Idzik, who joined Ryan on the conference call, refused to get into specifics about Patterson's release. "In the end, it just felt appropriate that we move on from Dimitri," he said.

Idzik also wouldn't acknowledge whether Patterson's statement to ESPN forced the organization's hand. "I don't know if anything changed," he said. "I think it really was taking that time to go through all of the facts . . . and I had follow-up conversations with him, just to really accurately ascertain what went on. And ultimately, does it fit for the team? And in the end, we felt like we did what is best for the New York Jets in releasing him."

Does Idzik have any regrets about signing Patterson, oft-injured and a member of seven teams in 10 years? "I would call Dimitri Patterson a legitimate cornerback," he said. "That's why we signed him . . . We don't look back. There's no regrets. We're in a people business, and you can't anticipate some things that may happen."

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THE RECORD

Jets notes: Rex Ryan on Stephen Hill's release (J.P. Pelzman) The Record September 1, 2014

http://www.northjersey.com/sports/249231911_Jets_release_CB_Antonio_Cromartie_to_Cromartie.html

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Rex on WR Hill

Coach Rex Ryan bristled slightly when asked if the Jets gave up too soon on third-year wide receiver Stephen Hill.

Ryan, speaking for the first time since Hill was waived Saturday, said, "We certainly didn’t give up on Stephen or anybody else. We provide the opportunity to make the team and some guys reached out and took it and other guys, it never worked out for. … We feel good about our receivers."

Ryan noted that Hill didn’t play special teams, and that also factored into the decision. Hill wasn’t a Ryan favorite. The coach once admitted he wouldn’t have picked Hill, whom then-GM Mike Tannenbaum traded up in the second round to select.

"We knew it was going to be tough competition" among the receivers, Ryan said, "and as far as Stephen’s concerned, I wish him the best."

Idzik on QB Simms

The Jets cut second-year QB Matt Simms of Franklin Lakes on Saturday, but signed him to the practice squad Sunday after he cleared waivers. He could be signed to another team’s 53-man active roster at any time, although the Jets could avoid that by promoting him if and when another team is interested. That’s why they signed TE Chris Pantale of Wayne to the active roster last year.

"We have a history with Matt," general manager John Idzik said. "If you have a good rapport with your practice roster guys, you have to believe they want to stay here. If there is an opportunity for us to promote them to the 53, we’ll do it."

Briefs

Besides signing veteran CB Phillip Adams on Monday, the Jets also claimed WR Walter Powell off waivers from Arizona. Powell, a Murray State product selected in the sixth round, had six catches for 106 yards this preseason and can return punts and kickoffs. … Two draft picks, LB Jeremiah George (fifth) and WR Quincy Enunwa (sixth), were waived. They could be signed to the practice squad if they clear waivers. … CB LeQuan Lewis was signed to the practice squad after being waived Sunday.

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Jets: No panic with secondary (J.P. Pelzman) The Record September 1, 2014

http://www.northjersey.com/sports/football/no-panic-with-jets-secondary-1.1079150

The Jets still were tinkering Monday with their decimated secondary, signing former Seattle cornerback Phillip Adams and releasing fifth-year corner Ellis Lankster. These transactions came one day after they claimed cornerback Leon McFadden, a third-round pick in 2013, off waivers from Cleveland.

Yet coach Rex Ryan said on a conference call shortly after the Adams transaction was announced (and before Lankster was cut) that there is "no question" he’s comfortable with the cornerbacks he has on the roster.

"I understand where everybody’s coming from," Ryan said, referring to the alarm over the cornerback situation, but he added, "We absolutely have no excuses. … We feel good about the players that we do have."

Even though they keep changing on a daily basis. The Jets released suspended corner Dimitri Patterson, a projected starter, on Saturday, eight days after he went AWOL for a preseason game against the Giants.

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McFadden was brought in Sunday, and Adams was signed Monday. The 5–foot-11, 195-pound Adams played at South Carolina State and was drafted by San Francisco in the seventh round in 2010.

He has 66 tackles and three interceptions in four NFL seasons, and also has spent time with New England and Oakland. He was on his second tour of duty with the Seahawks when he was released Saturday.

Ryan said the Jets are familiar with both players. Adams’ first stint in Seattle came while Jets general manager John Idzik was part of the front office there, and McFadden was cut by the Browns, who now are led by head coach Mike Pettine, a Ryan disciple.

Lankster was cut to make room for linebacker A.J. Edds.

The Jets may catch a break Sunday in their opener against Oakland. According to multiple reports, second-round pick Derek Carr will get the start at quarterback over veteran Matt Schaub, who’s dealing with some elbow issues.

It’s unclear who’ll start for the Jets at corner. Ryan indicated he still is unsure about the availability of No. 1 cornerback Dee Milliner, who suffered a high ankle sprain Aug. 10. He was more positive about safety-turned-corner Antonio Allen, who’s recovering from a concussion suffered Aug. 22. Allen practiced Friday on a no-contact basis. Players were off for Labor Day and will return to work today.

Idzik made his first public comments since Patterson was released. He denied the Jets got rid of Patterson because of his repeated statements that basically painted the Jets as liars. Patterson claimed he never was AWOL. Idzik also indicated there was no guarantee Patterson would return Monday, the date the Jets set for him being eligible to return from the discipline.

"I don’t put too much weight on statements," Idzik said, but he refused to divulge the version of events during the weekend of Aug. 22-24 that Patterson provided when he talked with Idzik and Ryan last week.

"We won’t get into the details of the discussions we had," Idzik said, and he bristled when a reporter asked him if he regretted not signing a "legitimate" corner during the spring.

"I would call Dimitri Patterson a legitimate cornerback," Idzik said. "That’s why we signed him."

Idzik said the Jets felt that keeping Patterson "wasn’t good for the team," adding, "We all put the team first. … We did what was best for the New York Jets. … It just felt appropriate that we move on from Dimitri."

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STAR-LEDGER

Jets sign CB Phillip Adams, release WR Quincy Enunwa, put CB LeQuan Lewis on practice squad (Darryl Slater) Star-Ledger September 1, 2014

http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2014/09/jets_sign_cb_phillip_adams_release_wr_quincy_enunwa_put_cb_lequan_lewis_on_practice_squad.html

The Jets continued to bolster their cornerback depth Monday, when they signed Phillip Adams and released rookie wide receiver Quincy Enunwa.

Adams is not a starting-caliber cornerback, so the Jets continue to face the possibility of starting Darrin Walls in next Sunday’s opener against the Raiders, presuming Dee Milliner (ankle) and/or converted safety

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Antonio Allen (concussion) are not healthy. If both Milliner and Allen are out, Ellis Lankster could be the next man up.

Adams was drafted in the seventh round by the 49ers in 2010. He has also played for the Patriots, Raiders and Seahawks (twice), including his most recent stint with Seattle coming this year. When Adams was with Seattle in 2011, Jets general manager John Idzik was in the Seahawks' front office, so there is some familiarity with Adams, from a Jets perspective.

Adams has played in 53 career games, with four starts. He has three career interceptions, including two in 2012 with the Raiders. Adams started two games in 2012 and two last year. He has eight career passes defended, including five in 2012. Adams has also returned 37 career punts, including 25 in 2012.

The Jets on Sunday claimed cornerback Leon McFadden, a former third-round pick by the Browns, while releasing training camp pickup LeQuan Lewis, a cornerback.

On Monday, the Jets added Lewis to their practice squad, bringing the squad to eight players, out of a possible 10. Enunwa probably will be on the practice squad as well.

The Jets drafted Enunwa in the sixth round, and he was somewhat of a surprise to make their 53-man roster, after Saturday’s cuts, considering he had zero catches in four preseason games.

The release of Enunwa and signing of Adams means the Jets now have six receivers and six cornerbacks on their 53-man active roster.

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Rex Ryan 'very encouraged' by Antonio Allen's progress, still unsure about Dee Milliner for opener (Darryl Slater) Star-Ledger September 1, 2014

http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2014/09/rex_ryan_very_encouraged_by_antonio_allens_progress_back_from_concussion_still_unsure_about_dee_mill.html

Jets coach Rex Ryan was encouraged by what converted safety Antonio Allen, now a cornerback, was able to do Friday, as the Jets work toward Sunday’s season opener against the Raiders.

Allen is recovering from a concussion sustained Aug. 22, in the Jets’ third preseason game, against the Giants.

“He had an excellent day on Friday,” Ryan said Monday. “He had a red (non-contact) jersey on. He moved around great. We’ll see what he can do tomorrow. I was very encouraged. We were very encouraged with the way he was moving around.”

Ryan had initially said Friday that he liked how Allen looked. Allen is in the NFL’s post-concussion assessment protocol, so he has to be cleared by an independent neurologist before returning fully to practice and game action.

The Jets’ top cornerback, Dee Milliner, is nursing a high ankle sprain sustained Aug. 10 in training camp. Ryan is not sure if Milliner will be ready to play against the Raiders.

“Obviously, you hope he is,” Ryan said. “I know he’s working hard to get back. But to say that do I really believe he will be? I think it’s too early to tell.”

These comments were also similar to the ones Ryan made Friday about Milliner.

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Though Ryan is encouraged by Allen’s progress, he also is not certain yet whether he will be cleared to play against Oakland. Darrin Walls is the Jets’ top backup cornerback, now that they have released Dimitri Patterson, a presumptive starter. Ryan declined to say whether Ellis Lankster or waiver claim Leon McFadden would be the leading contender to start at the other corner spot, if both Milliner and Allen are sidelined.

The Jets were off Monday from practice, for Labor Day, and will resume practice Tuesday, which is their usual off day during the regular season.

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Derek Carr, Raiders rookie QB, to face Jets' troubled secondary in opener, per report (Darryl Slater) Star-Ledger September 1, 2014

http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2014/09/jets_troubled_secondary_will_face_raiders_rookie_qb_derek_carr_in_opener_per_report.html

The Jets have a lot of questions with their cornerback situation, and they must face a gauntlet of tough quarterbacks from Weeks 2-7. But in Sunday's opener against the Raiders, at MetLife Stadium, they will face a rookie quarterback.

The Raiders have decided to start Derek Carr in Week 1 over veteran Matt Schaub, according to Jay Glazer of Fox Sports.

Carr is a second-round draft pick out of Fresno State. He is the brother of quarterback David Carr, the No. 1 overall pick in 2002. David Carr, whose last NFL season was 2012, was a backup for the Giants from 2008-09 and 2011-12.

The Raiders in the offseason traded Houston a sixth-round pick for Schaub, a 33-year-old in his 11th NFL season.

Schaub missed the Raiders' preseason finale with an elbow injury. Carr, in that game, completed 11 of 13 passes for 143 yards and three touchdowns. In the preseason, Schaub completed 24 of 47 passes for 218 yards, no touchdowns and one pick.

After facing the Raiders, the Jets get the Packers, Bears, Lions, Chargers, Broncos and Patriots -- quarterbacked by Aaron Rodgers, Jay Cutler, Matthew Stafford, Philip Rivers, Peyton Manning and Tom Brady.

They better enjoy the experience against a rookie quarterback while they can get it.

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Jets GM John Idzik: 'I would call Dimitri Patterson a legitimate cornerback. That's why we signed him' (Darryl Slater) Star-Ledger September 1, 2014

http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2014/09/jets_gm_john_idzik_i_would_call_dimitri_patterson_a_legitimate_cornerback_thats_why_we_signed_him.html

Cornerback Dimitri Patterson was due back from suspension Monday, a week after Jets general manager John Idzik first slapped him with an indefinite suspension for blowing off a preseason game against the Giants.

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Idzik said Monday, two days after the Jets released Patterson, that by initially extending Patterson’s suspension until Monday, the Jets were not indicating they would wait that long to take action regarding the AWOL cornerback.

Idzik maintained, to nobody’s surprise, that he had no regrets about signing Patterson this offseason, and that he believes Patterson is a good player. The decision to fire Patterson came down primarily to one factor, according to the general manager.

“We thought it wasn’t good for the team to go forward (with Patterson on the roster),” Idzik said. “That is pure and simple. I think we all put the team first, and if you feel like something is not going to work that way, you just move on. That’s what we did.”

The Jets’ brass had not spoken publicly about Patterson’s release until Monday.

Idzik had no choice but to cut Patterson, after the cornerback released a statement Thursday that said Idzik lied when he told reporters Patterson went AWOL. After Patterson met with Idzik and coach Rex Ryan last Sunday, Idzik said he had “follow-up conversations” with Patterson, “just to really accurately ascertain what went on.”

When asked what impact Patterson’s statement had on the decision to cut him, Idzik said, “We don’t operate too much on statements. I prefer direct communication. You always like to hear it directly from, in this case, the player. That’s what we did. We heard him out, and he heard us out. Then we acted how we thought was appropriate given the circumstances. I don’t put too much weight on statements.”

Idzik declined to say if Patterson told him, to his face, that he lied about Patterson going AWOL.

“Suffice it to say, I think he had an open forum here to spill everything out,” Idzik said. “And then we told him our views as well. In the end, it just felt appropriate that we move on from Dimitri. I think that was the best thing for the Jets.”

Few people will doubt that disposing Patterson was beneficial for the Jets. But should Idzik have signed him in the first place? Patterson is a 31-year-old who has played for seven teams in 10 seasons, and participated in just 15 games combined over the past two seasons because of injuries. There were plenty of more successful – and higher-priced – cornerbacks available on the free agent market this offseason.

“I would call Dimitri Patterson a legitimate cornerback,” Idizk insisted. “That’s why we signed him. We like the player. We had interviewed the player. We don’t look back. There’s no regrets. We’re in a people business. You really can’t anticipate some things that may happen. You get somebody onboard, you get them in your environment, and hopefully things work out. It doesn’t all the time. We have to be ready to adjust and move forward. No, we don’t have any regrets in signing Dimitri.”

Ryan joined Idzik on a teleconference Monday with reporters. Like Idzik, Ryan naturally spun positive about the Jets’ cornerback situation. In a few days, none of these words will matter at all, when the Jets open the season Sunday against the Raiders.

Not only is one presumptive starting cornerback gone (Patterson), another (Dee Milliner) is uncertain for the opener because of a high ankle sprain. Converted safety Antonio Allen, who has moved to cornerback, is recovering from a concussion. The Jets’ top two backup cornerbacks are Darrin Walls and Ellis Lankster. Still, Ryan maintained he feels fine about his cornerbacks, because of course he is going to say this.

“No question about it,” Ryan said. “I understand where everybody is coming from, because we’ve had some injury questions. But I think when this thing gets kicked off for real, we absolutely have no excuses. We feel good about the players that we do have. Shoot, the great thing is we get to prove it.”

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NJ.COM

Rex Ryan says Jets had seen enough of Stephen Hill (Dom Cosentino) NJ.com September 1, 2014

http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2014/09/rex_ryan_says_jets_had_seen_enough_of_stephen_hill.html

Two days after cutting Stephen Hill, the Jets had their first chance to explain why've already they parted ways with a wide receiver they had traded up to draft in the 2012 second round out of Georgia Tech.

In the wake of Hill getting cut on Saturday, his agent, Alan Herman, said the Jets "never gave him the opportunity he deserved this year," among additional frustrations Herman expressed about head coach Rex Ryan and general manager John Idzik.

But on Monday, Ryan made it clear the Jets had seen enough of Hill, thank you very much.

"I think we gave Stephen plenty of opportunity," Ryan said. "He had more snaps than any receiver through camp. But at the end of the day, a lot goes into it."

Ryan said one of those factors was that Hill didn't play special teams; Jalen Saunders and Saalim Hakim look like the team's punt and kickoff returners, respectively, while Hill worked neither as a returner nor on any of the special teams coverage units.

"Some of the guys were probably kept over Stephen for that very fact," Ryan said.

But it was more than that, even if Ryan didn't say so directly: Greg Salas, the other receiver the Jets kept after their top three of Eric Decker, Jeremy Kerley, and David Nelson, only played special teams in a limited role during the preseason. But Salas indisputably just did a better job as a receiver than Hill did.

Even without Hill, the Jets still have seven receivers on their 53-man roster. Though they released rookie Quincy Enunwa on Monday, they also claimed Walter Powell off waivers from the Cardinals. Powell is a rookie who had been taken in the sixth round of this year's draft.

It's true that Hill battled knee injuries in each of his first two seasons, during which he caught 45 passes in 23 games. And his blazing speed is certainly his best asset. But reading between the lines here, the Jets wanted Hill to show he could use that speed to better run routes, and to just plain catch the football. That Hill still couldn't do that this summer, even as he stayed healthy through pretty much all of his third training camp, meant that it was time to move on.

Per Pro Football Focus, Hill played 121 snaps during the preseason, including 69 passing plays. Yet he was targeted just eight times and had only three catches.

No other team made a waiver on Hill, though he reportedly had a workout with the Panthers on Monday. Idzik, who was hired after the Jets drafted Hill, gave Hill a tepid endorsement as he showed Hill the exit.

"A guy of Stephen's caliber, he's been in the league bit, you would think he'd garner some attention," Idzik said.

Hill was given a tryout by the Panthers on Monday, according to report, but a signing doesn't appear imminent.

Ryan went on to say, "We certainly didn't give up on anybody. We talk about the competition, and that's what we had here. We knew it was going to be a lot of guys competing for just a few spots. But again, we

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certainly didn't give up on Stephen or anybody else. We provided the opportunity to make a team, and some guys reached out and took it, and other guys, it never worked for yet."

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Why the Jets cut cornerback Ellis Lankster to bring back linebacker A.J. Edds (Dom Cosentino) NJ.com September 1, 2014

http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2014/09/why_the_jets_cut_cb_ellis_lankster_to_bring_back_lb_aj_edds.html

OK, nobody panic: The Jets on Monday cut cornerback Ellis Lankster and signed back linebacker A.J. Edds, thereby replacing one player who had made the 53-man roster with another who was only released on Saturday afternoon.

No, really: Nobody panic. There appears to be some logic to this, even if Lankster's departure was not something anyone had seen coming.

Yes, Lankster was about to enter his fourth season with the Jets. Yes, he had some value on special teams coverage units, where he was the team's second-leading tackler last season. And, yes, he started the Jets' second preseason game.

But Lankster was expendable. He was not expected to be a starting cornerback, even if Dee Milliner's high ankle sprain isn't healed in time for Sunday's season opener against the Raiders.

And the Jets suddenly had a need for inside linebacker depth, which is why they turned again to Edds, who hopefully hadn't yet caught a taxi to the Newark airport after having been cut on Saturday.

But let's begin with Lankster. The Jets only started him Aug. 16 against the Bengals because Milliner, Dexter McDougle, and a pre-AWOL Dimitri Patterson had just gotten injured, forcing the Jets to whip up some sort of backup plan. And by the next week, that plan changed: Darrin Walls got the start, and Lankster played just three defensive snaps—even after converted safety Antonio Allen left the game with a concussion. But changing plans without concern for consequences is part of the purpose of the preseason. And Ryan said Allen is already practicing again, at least on a limited basis. Look for him to be ready in time for Sunday.

Then came Thursday night against the Eagles, when all of the starters and many of the regulars sat, and when most of the players who actually did play were likely going to get cut. Yet Lankster played 95 percent of the defensive snaps. The point? Had Lankster been a key part of the Jets' plans at corner, there's no way he would have played that much in Philly.

Also, for as much special teams value as Lankster has had in the past, he wasn't used much on the special teams units during the preseason: Just eight special-teams plays against the Colts, six against the Bengals, 15 against the Giants, seven against the Eagles. And after the Eagles game, head coach Rex Ryan said he was pleased with how quickly wideout Saalim Hakim had gotten down the field with the coverage units, even if Hakim "whiffed"—Ryan's word—at least once on a tackle. Please note that the Jets added two cornerbacks—Leon McFadden and Phillip Adams—in the last two days. And that Hakim is one of seven receivers still on the 53-man roster. Besides, if McFadden and Adams end up having to play much—which they likely won't—then the Jets have bigger problems than even their worst critics can envision.

Now, why bring Edds back so soon after cutting him? The biggest reason likely resulted from what happened earlier Monday, when the Jets signed wideout Walter Powell and cut inside linebacker Jeremiah George. Remember, Nick Bellore injured a calf in the Eagles game. Also, as ESPN New York's Rich Cimini

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noted, after George was released, that left Bellore as the only backup inside linebacker on the roster behind starters Demario Davis and David Harris. Bellore's status for Sunday isn't known, but the Jets had to do something for depth's sake.

So why did they cut Edds in the first place? Edds had a solid training camp, and he was outstanding against the Colts. But as Brian Costello of the New York Post pointed out, it's possible the Jets felt George—a rookie taken in the fifth round—wouldn't pass through waivers to land on the practice squad. This way, with most NFL rosters set and the Jets still sitting on two practice squad spots, they might be able to do just that. Plus, the Jets likely were willing to gamble that no one would put in a claim for Edds, who's bounced around the league since being drafted in 2010. By going this route, the Jets held on to two of their backup inside linebackers, even though they initially only chose to keep one on the 53-man roster.

See? There does seem to be some method to this madness.

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NEW YORK POST

SNY has new analysts for Jets coverage (Justin Terranova) New York Post September 1, 2014

http://nypost.com/2014/09/01/sny-has-new-analysts-for-jets-coverage/

There will be a new look to the Jets’ coverage on SNY this season.

Former Jets safety Erik Coleman and linebacker Chad Cascadden will join the network’s coverage of the team in 2014, according to sources.

Cascadden will be replacing Joe Klecko on the “Post Game Live”, while Coleman will be on each Tuesday’s “Jets Game Plan.” Klecko’s departures were described as a “mutual decision.”

Former special teams coordinator Mike Westhoff will now have a full-time role on the postgame show after working some games last season.

Ray Lucas will continue to be an analyst on “Game Plan”, which along with the postgame show, will be co-hosted by Brian Custer and Jeané Coakley.

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No, the Jets’ poor CB depth still doesn’t faze Idzik or Rex (Brian Costello) New York Post September 1, 2014

http://nypost.com/2014/09/01/no-the-jets-poor-cb-depth-still-doesnt-phase-idzik-or-rex/

When the Jets resume practice Tuesday, their starting cornerbacks could be Antonio Allen, who has never started a game at the position, and Darrin Walls, who has four career starts.

Yikes.

Dee Milliner is still recovering from a high left ankle sprain and it sounds as if he won’t be ready for Sunday’s season opener with the Raiders. The team cut its other projected starter, Dimitri Patterson, over the weekend after his AWOL act. That leaves a lot of question marks at the position. Allen is coming off a concussion, but it appears he will play.

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Coach Rex Ryan says he is not worried, though. When asked on a conference call Monday if he is comfortable with this group of cornerbacks he shot back, “Oh, no question about it.”

Ryan believes everyone is overstating the cornerback crisis.

“I understand where everybody is coming from because we’ve had some injury questions or some of the guys with Dee and then Antonio Allen, in particular, with the injuries,” Ryan said. “I think when this thing gets kicked off for real, we absolutely have no excuses. We’ll line up and play. We feel good about the players that we do have. Shoot, the great thing is we get to prove it.”

On Monday, Ryan and general manager John Idzik spoke with reporters for the first time since releasing Patterson and waiving wide receiver Stephen Hill.

Idzik did not go into much detail about the decision to release Patterson. It seemed like a no-brainer after the 31-year-old failed to show up for the preseason game with the Giants, went missing for 48 hours and then called Idzik and Ryan liars.

“We will always operate by one of our primary tenets: The team comes first in everything we do,” Idzik said. “I think in the end we felt like we did what is best for the New York Jets in releasing him.”

Idzik has come under fire for the cornerback situation. He failed to land any of the big-name cornerbacks available in free agency and did not draft one until the third round. On the call, Idzik was asked if he regretted not signing a “legitimate” cornerback.

“I would call Dimitri Patterson a legitimate cornerback. That’s why we signed him,” Idzik said. “We liked the player. We interviewed the player. We don’t look back. There’s no regret. We’re in a people business. You really can’t anticipate some things that may happen.”

This is the second straight year one of Idzik’s free-agent signings had an off-the-field issue. Mike Goodson was suspended for four games last year after getting arrested on gun and drug charges. The team released Goodson in the spring.

The Jets did add another cornerback on Monday, signing veteran Phillip Adams. The Jets will be Adams’ fifth team in five seasons. He played last season with the Raiders and had a terrible year. He spent training camp with the Seahawks, who released him Saturday.

Ryan said Allen practiced Friday, but was not permitted any contact. That is usually the final step before a player gets fully cleared from a concussion. As for Milliner, Ryan was not as optimistic.

“I’m not sure. We’ll see. Obviously, you hope he is [ready],” Ryan said. “I know he’s working hard to get back. But to say, do I really believe he will be? I think it’s too early to tell.”

Ryan also spoke about Hill, the team’s 2012 second-round pick let go Saturday. The Jets simply had seen enough.

“I think we gave Stephen plenty of opportunity,” Ryan said. “He had more snaps than any receiver through camp. But at the end of the day, a lot goes into it. One of them is … special teams presence. Stephen really never provided a whole lot of special teams presence, if at all. Some of the guys we probably kept over Stephen for that very fact.”

In addition to Adams, the Jets also claimed WR Walt Powell off waivers from the Cardinals.

They waived LB Jeremiah George, a fifth-round pick this year, and WR Quincy Enunwa, a sixth-rounder, to clear roster spots. It is expected both George and Enunwa will be signed to the practice squad if they clear waivers. The Jets signed CB LeQuan Lewis to the practice squad Monday, leaving two more open spots. …

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They signed LB A.J. Edds, who they had cut Saturday and released CB Ellis Lankster. … Hill had a tryout with the Panthers on Monday, according to a source.

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NEW YORK DAILY NEWS

John Idzik has no regrets with CB Dimitri Patterson as NY Jets will have hands full facing star-studded QBs (Seth Walder) New York Daily News September 1, 2014

http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/football/jets/dimitri-patterson-jets-focus-invastion-star-qbs-article-1.1924322#ixzz3C9VLJfGw

The signing of Dimitri Patterson, questionable from the start, could not have gone any worse for the Jets. Yet, John Idzik says he has no regrets.

The Jets signed Patterson in April after many of the big-name free-agent cornerbacks were gone. When he wasn’t hurt, he played poorly. Then Patterson didn’t show up for the preseason game against the Giants, going AWOL for about 48 hours, according to the team. Finally, after he basically called the Jets liars, he was released.

He was a bad solution to a big problem at a key position in Rex Ryan’s defense. Now they don’t even have that.

“We don’t look back,” Idzik said Monday. “There’s no regrets.”

Idzik provided little clarification of Patterson’s the mysterious disappearance. The GM didn’t say why Patterson went AWOL or if the Jets’ version of the events were contested, as he did in a statement last week, when he met with the team. Last Tuesday the Jets said Patterson’s suspension would be eligible to end on Monday, but he was released on Saturday. When asked what changed, Idzik claimed nothing. In the mean time, Patterson contradicted the Jets’ story.

“The team comes first in everything we do,” Idzik said. “In the end, we felt like we did what is best for the New York Jets in releasing him.”

The combination of Patterson’s release, Dee Milliner’s high ankle sprain and Dexter McDougle’s torn ACL means the Jets will likely start Darrin Walls and converted safety Antonio Allen at cornerback in the season opener on Sunday against Oakland. A possible break for the Jets? They’re facing rookie quarterback Derek Carr.

Carr will make his NFL debut thanks to an elbow injury to veteran Matt Schaub, who played poorly in the preseason. Ryan has had success against rookie QBs, 7-3 against them since 2009.

After that things only get tougher for the Jets’ secondary, as Gang Green faces Aaron Rodgers, Jay Cutler, Matthew Stafford, Philip Rivers, Peyton Manning and Tom Brady in the following six weeks.

In the offseason the Jets, in need of a cornerback after releasing Antonio Cromartie and coming off a poor rookie season from Milliner, had the money to sign a top free-agent at the position like Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, Vontae Davis or even Darrelle Revis. Instead, they settled on Patterson, an injury-prone journeyman.

Asked if he wished the team had signed a legitimate cornerback, Idzik actually defended the man he released on Saturday.

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“Well I would call Dimitri Patterson a legitimate cornerback, that’s why we signed him,” Idzik said.

The Jets have been reinforced by castoffs in the past couple of days. On Monday the team signed veteran CB Phillip Adams, who was cut by the Seahawks after playing for the Raiders last season. Adams had previously played for the Seahawks when John Idzik was in Seattle. On Sunday the team claimed CB Leon McFadden off waivers from the Browns. They may be new names for a depleted secondary, but they of course have their faults: Adams was ranked 107th out of 110 cornerbacks in the league last season by ProFootballFocus.com and McFadden committed eight penalties this preseason. Adams actually gave up two touchdown passes to Carr in the Seahawks’ final preseason game, though one came on a tipped ball by a fellow defender.

Despite all the problems at the position, Ryan said there was “no question” he was comfortable entering the season with the current crop of cornerbacks.

UPHILL BATTLE: Stephen Hill’s disappointing tenure with the Jets came to an abrupt end on Saturday when the team released him, but Ryan said Hill didn’t lack chances.

“We gave Stephen plenty of opportunity,” Ryan said. “He had more snaps than any receiver through camp,” Ryan said.

The coach also noted that Hill did not contribute on special teams.

“We provided the opportunity to make the team,” Ryan said. “And some guys reached out, took it, and other guys it never worked out for you.”

Hill went unclaimed on waivers, which sounded as if it came somewhat as a surprise to Idzik.

“A guy of Stephen’s caliber, that’s been in the league a little bit, you’d think he’d garner some attention,” Idzik said.

Hill’s agent, Alan Herman, was critical of the Jets after the receiver was cut, saying that the team didn’t put Hill in a good position to develop, didn’t throw enough to him

In the preseason and that Ryan didn’t support him enough publicly.

“Certainly he has a right to his opinion,” Ryan said. “I’ve got skin like an armadillo. I’ll take whatever they throw at me.”

NO EDGE: Though 2014 draft picks LB Jeremiah George and WR Quincy Enunwa were released Monday to make room for Adams and WR Walt Powell, claimed off waivers from the Cardinals, Jet selections did unexpectedly well for themselves come cut-down time. However, Idzik said draft picks did not get to enjoy an advantage in making the team.

“No,” Idzik said. “I won’t admit that.”

RETURN FLIGHT: The Jets re-signed LB A.J. Edds and released CB Ellis Lankster.

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NEW YORK TIMES

Idzik Says Jets Have No Regrets in Cutting Patterson (Ben Shpigel) New York Times September 1, 2014

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/09/02/sports/football/john-idzik-says-jets-have-no-regrets-in-cutting-dimitri-patterson.html?ref=football&_r=0

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When the Jets announced last week that cornerback Dimitri Patterson’s indefinite suspension had been lifted, and that he was eligible to return Monday, there seemed to be a chance that he would have a future with the team. If he made amends with his teammates and coaches, handled his punishment with grace, then perhaps he could become a Jet in good standing.

That possibility disintegrated Saturday, when he was released for what amounts to insubordination. The Jets cut Patterson with no remorse or regret, General Manager John Idzik said.

“We felt it wasn’t good for the team to go forward,” Idzik said Monday in a teleconference. “Pure and simple.”

In what way, Idzik was asked. “We all put the team first and if you feel like something’s not going to work that way, you just move on, and that’s what we did,” he said.

His answer was at once specific and vague, with Idzik again declining to divulge the circumstances surrounding Patterson’s contentious absence from the team, though the feeling is that he was displeased with his role.

Or whether Patterson was purged, in part, because of a statement he issued to ESPN on Thursday that essentially called the Jets liars for saying that he had vanished for 48 hours — missing their Aug. 22 preseason game against the Giants — without contacting Idzik or Coach Rex Ryan.

In the statement, Patterson said that his representative, Drew Rosenhaus, attempted to reach the team “multiple times” and that any notion that he had abandoned the Jets was “completely false.”

Calling it a private discussion, Idzik declined to say whether Patterson had denied in their conversations being unreachable.

“We don’t operate too much on statements,” Idzik said when asked whether Patterson’s statement contributed to his release. “I prefer direct communication.”

After Patterson’s portrayal of his bosses, it would have been difficult, if not impossible, for him to enter the locker room again as anything other than a pariah. It was a sensible move to cut him, but now the Jets are even more vulnerable at a position that lacked depth and talent even before Patterson’s situation.

Idzik said he would not apologize for signing Patterson instead of a better, less injury-prone player in free agency, calling him a “legitimate cornerback.”

“We’re in a people business,” Idzik said. “And you really can’t anticipate some things that may happen. You get somebody on board, you get them in your environment and you hope things work out. It doesn’t all the time, and we have to be ready to adjust and move forward.”

The Jets did adjust three weeks ago when Dee Milliner sustained a high ankle sprain, shifting Antonio Allen to cornerback from safety. It remains unlikely that Milliner will be available for the season opener Sunday against Oakland, though Ryan said it was too early to tell.

In encouraging news for the team, Allen (concussion) wore a red no-contact jersey Friday, when the Jets last practiced, meaning that he could be ready to work out in full as early as Tuesday. If Milliner is not cleared, the Jets could start Darrin Walls and Allen at corner.

“When this thing gets kicked off for real, we absolutely have no excuses,” Ryan said. “We’ll line up and play. We feel good about the players we do have.”

One player they will not have is a receiver who dazzled in their season opener two years ago, Stephen Hill. The Jets gave Hill, their second-round pick in 2012, more snaps than any other receiver during the

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preseason, but he failed to prove that he deserved a roster spot more than versatile players like Greg Salas and Saalim Hakim, who have special-teams value.

“We certainly didn’t give up on Stephen or anybody else,” Ryan said. “We provided the opportunity to make the team and some guys reached out and took it, and other guys, it never worked for you.”

EXTRA POINTS

The Jets released two draft picks, linebacker Jeremiah George and receiver Quincy Enunwa, to make room for cornerback Philip Adams (Seattle) and receiver Walter Powell (Arizona). George and Enunwa, if they clear waivers, are likely to join the practice squad. The Jets also released cornerback Ellis Lankster and signed linebacker A. J. Edds, whom they cut Saturday. ... The Associated Press reported that the Oakland rookie Derek Carr will start against the Jets, becoming the first Raiders quarterback to start the first game of his rookie season. Coach Dennis Allen announced that Carr would be the starter for the foreseeable future ahead of Matt Schaub, who struggled in the preseason and has been hampered by a sore elbow. Back_to_Top

WALL STREET JOURNAL

Jets Can't Seem to Turn the Corner (Alex Raskin) Wall Street Journal September 1, 2014

http://online.wsj.com/articles/jets-cant-seem-to-turn-the-corner-1409617721

Monday, Labor Day, effectively marked the end of summer for Jets general manager John Idzik and coach Rex Ryan. And, like pupils who had neglected the required summer reading, the two offered some vague answers during a conference call with reporters primarily regarding the dismal situation at cornerback.

Given the barrage of injuries and turnover at the position, Ryan refused to name his starters for Sunday's opener against the Oakland Raiders. And yet, when asked if he was confident in his cornerbacks, Ryan didn't hesitate: "No question about it."

Their litany of recent transactions tell a different story.

Two days after claiming former third-round pick Leon McFadden from Cleveland, the Jets signed cornerback Phillip Adams on Monday after he had been cut by Seattle. Of course, Idzik wouldn't have had to add two cornerbacks—or release wide receiver Quincy Enunwa and cornerbacks LeQuan Lewis and Ellis Lankster—were the Jets truly comfortable at the position.

Things originally turned sour in early August when one starter, 2013 first-round pick Dee Milliner, suffered a high-ankle sprain and rookie Dex McDougle, a third-round pick in May's NFL Draft, tore his ACL.

But things got truly bizarre when the other starter, free-agent acquisition Dimitri Patterson, missed the Aug. 22 exhibition against the Giants—an absence the team said was unexcused. Patterson, who was suspended indefinitely at the time, rebutted that claim in a statement given to ESPN. He was subsequently released on Saturday, leaving the Jets without any starting-caliber cornerbacks, but with over $23 million in cap space—more than all but two teams, according to the NFL players' union.

Idzik, who famously traded All-Pro cornerback Darrelle Revis to Tampa Bay in 2013, admitted that Patterson was a "legitimate cornerback." Still, even after meeting with Patterson to discuss the disputed absence, Idzik felt the best move was to proceed without him.

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"We're in a people business and you really can't anticipate some things that may happen," he said. "You get somebody on board, you get them in your environment, and hopefully things work out. It doesn't all the time and we have to be ready to adjust and move forward. That's what we did with Dimitri."

But it isn't like the Jets have a lot of options.

Antonio Allen, a college linebacker-turned safety, had never played cornerback before August and could be given a chance to start if he recovers from a recent concussion.

Kyle Wilson is healthy, but the former first-round pick is entrenched at nickel cornerback, where he had a disappointing preseason. Opposing quarterbacks threw at him 10 times over 61 snaps, according to Pro Football Focus, and Wilson allowed a catch on all but one occasion.

Obviously McFadden and Adams are at a disadvantage because they're new to the team, and McFadden is in a particularly tough spot after committing a remarkable eight penalties in the preseason.

That leaves Darrin Walls as the only truly healthy cornerback with a working knowledge of the defense, which is concerning considering he was at the bottom of the team's depth chart last season.

To his credit, Walls allowed only six catches over 114 preseason snaps, according to PFF, and he had one of the Jets's two interceptions in August (the other was provided by Lewis, who signed with the practice squad after being released).

"I understand where everybody is coming from because we had some injury questions," Ryan said, adding, "When this thing gets kicked off for real, we absolutely have no excuses."

The Jets also parted ways with former second-round pick Stephen Hill on Saturday. The six-foot-four wide receiver who once ran the 40-yard dash in 4.36 seconds didn't contribute enough on special teams, Ryan explained.

Idzik was asked if Hill was at a disadvantage because he was drafted by his predecessor, former Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum, but Idzik disagreed and Ryan took it a step further.

"I think we gave Stephen plenty of opportunity," Ryan said. "He had more snaps than any receiver through camp."

Hill finished the preseason with only three catches, not enough to justify his spot.

Also on Monday, the Jets claimed a receiver, Walter Powell, off waivers from Arizona, linebacker A.J Edds, who was with the team during minicamp, and released rookie linebacker Jeremiah George. Powell logged significant time on offense and special teams for the Cardinals during the preseason.

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ESPN NEW YORK

Ryan, Idzik explain Hill, Patterson cuts (Rich Cimini) ESPN New York September 1, 2014

http://espn.go.com/blog/new-york-jets/post/_/id/42434/ryan-idzik-explain-hill-patterson-cuts

After two days of silence, Rex Ryan and John Idzik emerged from their bunkers at One Jets Drive to explain the decisions to release wide receiver Stephen Hill and cornerback Dimitri Patterson.

There wasn't much to say about Hill -- we all saw the dropped passes -- but Ryan chose to focus on the special-teams angle.

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"We gave Stephen plenty of opportunities, more snaps than any receiver in camp," said Ryan, stating an absolute fact. "At the end of the day, a lot goes into it. One of them is special teams presence. Stephen never really provided a whole lot of special teams presence, if at all. So some of the guys were prob kept over Stephen for that very fact."

The Jets didn't see Hill as one of their top three receivers. If you're a No. 4 or lower, you'd better be a contributor on special teams. Rookie Jalen Saunders and Saalim Hakim made the team because of punt- and kickoff-return ability, respectively. Greg Salas isn't a core special teams player, but he can play on some units.

On Monday, the Jets picked up rookie wide receiver Walter Powell on waivers from the Arizona Cardinals. At Murray State, he was a prolific kick returner and a gunner on coverage units. The Jets, under new special teams coordinator Thomas McGaughey, have placed an added emphasis on the kicking game.

Ryan shrugged off the criticism aimed at him by Hill's agent, Alan Herman, who accused the coach of not supporting his client as he does with defensive players that struggle. Ryan held his tongue, saying it was a "tough situation for everybody." He said the agent is entitled to his opinion.

"Hey, I have skin like an armadillo," Ryan said. "I'll take whatever they throw at me."

Idzik said he was a bit surprised that Hill, a former second-round pick, wasn't claimed on waivers.

As for Patterson, the Jets provided no clarity whatsover. Idzik wants you to believe that Patterson's inflammatory statement, basically accusing the Jets of lying about the reason for his absence, had nothing to do with the decision to release him. If that were the case, why didn't they cut him immediately instead of handing down a one-week suspension? Truth is, they were willing to give him a second chance, but Patterson blew it by making a public stink.

But Idzik wouldn't acknowledge that.

"I don’t put too much weight on statements," Idzik said. "I’d rather hear the statement directly from the player. ... Suffice it to say, he had an open forum here to spill everything out, and we told him our views as well. In the end, it just felt appropriate that we move on from Dimitri. That was the best thing for the Jets."

Idzik, in a conference call with reporters, got flustered by the repeated questions about Patterson. After one follow-up, he paused for several seconds.

"We felt like it was good for our team to go forward, pure and simple," he said, explaining why they cut their most experienced cornerback.

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For an encore, 'Big Snacks' wants sacks (Rich Cimini) ESPN New York September 1, 2014

http://espn.go.com/blog/new-york-jets/post/_/id/42412/for-an-encore-big-snacks-wants-sacks

Damon "Big Snacks" Harrison earned his nickname, one of the best in sports, because he loves to eat. But you can't do what he's done, overcoming a snub at every level of football, with an appetite limited to food.

Harrison always wants more for himself, and we're not talking Big Macs. One year after establishing himself as one of the premier run-stopping defensive linemen in the NFL, the New York Jets' nose tackle enters the 2014 season with a craving to become a better pass-rusher.

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Snacks wants sacks.

And he expects to get some.

"I'll be a whole lot better," said Harrison, who recorded only one sack last season in primarily a first- and second-down role. "This year, the production in the pass-rushing area should go well. I worked on it a lot in the offseason, and I'm seeing the improvement. The coaches like what they see."

At home in Lake Charles, Louisiana, Harrison dabbled in boxing, unleashing punches into mitts held by his instructor. At 6-foot-4, 350 pounds, he'd be in the super-heavyweight division. The idea, of course, was to improve his hand quickness. Despite a successful 2013, his first year as a starter, he learned that trying to beat a guard or center with slow hands is like taking a knife to a gun fight.

"Last year, I was out there on the fly, just pretty much trying to bully people," he said. "In the NFL, you can't do that."

Harrison moves exceptionally well for a man of his size -- in college, he was able to do 360-degree dunks -- but his athleticism didn't translate into pressure on the quarterback. In 226 pass-rushing opportunities, he generated only nine hurries, according to the stats-based website Pro Football Focus.

It's rare to find a nose tackle that can pressure the quarterback on a consistent basis. Harrison gets that, but he also has a desire to become a well-rounded player. It showed up in the preseason, as he demonstrated improvement as a pass-rusher. You saw better technique disengaging from blocks and you saw a better closing burst.

His teammates would like to see Harrison get more pass-rushing chances in sub packages.

"He proved that he's one of our most valuable players," linebacker Demario Davis said. "When somebody is one of your most valuable players, you can't take him off the field.

"The more we keep him out there on pass plays, it's going to help us even more because he gets good penetration," Davis continued. "It's going to open up lanes for our ends and it's going to push the quarterback out of the pocket."

Rex Ryan acknowledged that Harrison "isn't just a big slug. He's a big, athletic guy, and he can push the pocket." The problem is, how does he fit into the nickel package?

The addition of Jason Babin gives the Jets five legitimate pass-rushers, along with Muhammad Wilkerson, Sheldon Richardson, Quinton Coples and Calvin Pace.

"Who are you taking off the field?" Ryan asked. "Sheldon Richardson? Mo Wilkerson? That's what you're balancing."

Nevertheless, Harrison can help as a first- and second-down pass-rusher. His true value, though, is clogging the A and B gaps, stifling the running game -- and that will be huge in Week 1 against the Oakland Raiders, who will attack on the ground with Darren McFadden, Maurice Jones-Drew and Marcel Reese.

Harrison was the highest-rated defensive tackle against the run last season, according to Pro Football Focus. Asked how he ranked in the Rex Ryan ratings, the coach smiled and said, "Pretty darn good."

Snacks was one of the feel-good stories in 2013, claiming the starting job after Kenrick Ellis went down with a preseason back injury. Harrison is a modern-day "Rudy," except a lot bigger.

He was cut twice by his middle-school team and became a water boy. He wasn't recruited out of high school. He was a junior-college reject. He stocked shelves at a Wal-Mart, making $14 an hour. He got a shot at William Penn University, a NAIA school in Iowa. He dominated, but he still was undrafted in 2012. He signed with the Jets, receiving a $7,000 bonus.

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Now he's one of their best players, in the final year of his contract, destined for a large pay day.

"It's an honor that someone would take the time and acknowledge what a nose tackle does, because a lot of people don't know," said Harrison, alluding to the PFF rankings. "Yeah, I think I'm pretty good stopping the run. Do I consider myself the best? I mean, I don't know. I don't watch too many guys."

The Jets led the league in fewest yards per rush last season, and that doesn't happen without Harrison in the middle, doing the dirty work.

"Everybody talks about Mo and Sheldon -- they're phenomenal players -- but a big part of our run-stopping defense comes from Snacks and Calvin Pace," Davis said.

Pace, the strong-side linebacker, sets the edge and forces runners to cut back to the inside. That's where Harrison is lurking, ready to gobble them up.

Nose tackle is a no-glory position, but Harrison has developed a following. With a nickname like Big Snacks, how can you not be admired? He said he's almost always recognized when he goes to a gas station or a grocery store. Imagine when he starts sacking the quarterback.

Bon appetit.

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MONDAY’S SPORTS TRANSACTIONS

Associated Press September 1, 2014

http://www.sfgate.com/default/article/Monday-s-Sports-Transactions-5727116.php

BASEBALL

American League

BALTIMORE ORIOLES — Recalled LHP Joe Saunders, RHP Evan Meek and RHP Kevin Gausman, from Norfolk (IL).

BOSTON RED SOX — Recalled RHP Steven Wright from Pawtucket (IL).

CLEVELAND INDIANS — Activated 1B-DH Jason Giambi from the 60-day DL.

HOUSTON ASTROS — Fired manager Bo Porter and bench coach Dave Trembley. Named Tom Lawless interim manager and Adam Everett interim bench coach.

KANSAS CITY ROYALS — Selected the contracts of OF Carlos Peguero from Omaha (PCL) and LHP Brandon Finnegan from Northwest Arkansas (Texas). Designated LHP Chris Dwyer and RHP Blake Wood for assignment. Reinstated 1B Eric Hosmer from the 15-day DL. Recalled RHP Casey Coleman, INF Johnny Giavotella and C Francisco Pena from Omaha and OF Lane Adams from Northwest Arkansas. Announced minor league medical coordinator Chris DeLucia will join the club as an additional trainer.

MINNESOTA TWINS — Recalled LHP Logan Darnell, RHP Michael Tonkin, OF Chris Herrman and OF Aaron Hicks from Rochester. Selected the contracts of RHP Lester Oliveros, RHP A.J. Achter and INF Doug Bernier from Rochester.

SEATTLE MARINERS — Placed 1B-DH Jesus Montero on the suspended list.

TAMPA BAY RAYS — Recalled RHP Brandon Gomes from Durham (IL). Purchased the contract of RHP Steve Geltz from Durham. Recalled C Curt Casali from Charlotte (FSL). Sent C Ali Solis outright to Durham.

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National League

ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS — Reinstated RHP Daniel Hudson and OF Cody Ross from 15-day DL.

MILWAUKEE BREWERS — Reinstated RHP Matt Garza and LHP Wei-Chung Wang from the 15-day DL. Recalled RHP Jimmy Nelson from Brevard County (FSL) and OF Logan Schafer from Nashville (PCL). Selected the contract of C Matt Pagnozzi from Nashville. Transferred SS Jeff Bianchi to the 60-day DL.

PITTSBURGH PIRATES — Selected the contract of RHP John Holdzkom and optioned him to Indianapolis (IL). Designated 1B Chris McGuiness for assignment. Recalled RHP Gerrit Cole from Bristol (Appalachian). Activated RHP Stolmy Pimentel from the 15-day DL. Recalled C Tony Sanchez from Indianapolis.

SAN DIEGO PADRES — Recalled INF Cory Spangenberg from San Antonio (Texas) and LHP Robbie Erlin from El Paso (PCL). Selected the contract of RHP Leonel Campos from El Paso. Transferred 1B Yonder Alonso and OF Carlos Quentin from the 15- to the 60-day DL.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS — Recalled RHP Aaron Barrett, LHP Xavier Cedeno, C Sandy Leon, 1B/OF Tyler Moore and RHP Blake Treinen from Syracuse (IL). Reinstated OF Steven Souza Jr. from the 15-day DL.

American Association

KANSAS CITY T- BONES — Exercised the 2015 contract options on RHP Casey Barnes, LHP Hamilton Bennett, RHP Kyle Devore, RHP Pat Doyle, RHP Derek Gordon, LHP Derek Loera, RHP Jared Messer, RHP Patrick Mincey, RHP Andy Noga, LHP Kris Regas, RHP Joe Van Meter, C Chris Bianchi, C Brian Erie, INF Vladimir Frias, INF Darrell Hudson, INF Matt Padgett, INF Danny Richar, INF Nick Schwaner, INF TJ Mittlestaedt and OF Robby Kuzdale.

WICHITA WINGNUTS — Exercised the 2015 contract options on RHP Daniel Bennett, RHP Tim Brown, LHP Anthony Capra, LHP Frank DeValle, RHP Chase Johnson, RHP Chris Peacock, RHP Celson Polanco, RHP Matt Robertson, RHP Dan Sattler, RHP Jason Van Skike, RHP Michael Zouzalik, C Brent Dean, C Chris McMurray. INF David Espinosa, INF Jake Kahaulelio, INF Chris McClendon, INF Abel Nieves, INF Taylor Oldham, OF David Amberson, OF Brent Clevlen, OF Vicor Diaz, OF Jake Luce, OF Jared McDonald and OF Carlo Testa.

Can-Am League

TROIS-RIVIERES AIGLES — Traded RHP Sean Keeler to Southern Maryland for a player to be named.

FOOTBALL

National Football League

ATLANTA FALCONS — Signed WR Freddie Martino and TE Kyle Miller to the practice squad.

BUFFALO BILLS — Signed G D.J. Morrell and RB Lonnie Pryor to the practice squad. Waived/injured TE Tony Moeaki.

CHICAGO BEARS — Signed LS Jeremy Cain. Signed WR Josh Bellamy, C Taylor Boggs, DT Brandon Dunn, CB Isaiah Frey, G Ryan Groy, LB DeDe Lattimore, CB Al Louis-Jean, CB Terrance Mitchell, DT Roy Philon and WR Rashad Ross to the practice squad.

CLEVELAND BROWNS — Signed OL Patrick Lewis, OL Karim Barton and WR Charles Johnson to the practice squad.

DALLAS COWBOYS — Waived S Ahmad Dixon and DB Jemea Thomas. Signed LB Korey Toomer and S C.J. Spillman. Signed FB Nikita Whitlock to the practice squad.

DENVER BRONCOS — Signed DE Zach Thompson to the practice squad.

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GREEN BAY PACKERS — Signed CB Jumal Rolle to the practice squad. Released WR Alex Gillett from the practice squad.

MINNESOTA VIKINGS — Signed CB Chris Greenwood to the practice squad.

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS — Signed DL Jake Bequette, QB McLeod Bethel-Thompson, WR Josh Boyce, LB Ja'Gared Davis, S Kanorris Davis, RB Jonas Gray, DL Charley Hughlett, OL Chris Martin, DL Deonate Skinner and DB Daxton Swanson to the practice squad.

NEW YORK JETS — Signed CB Phillip Adams. Released WR Quincy Enunwa. Signed CB LeQuan Lewis to the practice squad.

OAKLAND RAIDERS — Signed RB George Atkinson III, DE Denico Autry, CB Ras-I Dowling, LB Bojay Filimoeatu, LB Spencer Hadley, OT Dan Kistler, DT Ricky Lumpkin, G Lamar Mady, WR Seth Roberts, TE Scott Simonson to the practice squad.

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS — Signed DT Ricardo Mathews. Waived RB Marion Grice.

ST. LOUIS RAMS — Signed QB Garrett Gilbert, LB Denicos Allen, LB Kevin Riddick, WR Emory Blake, WR Justin Veltung, S Christian Bryant, S Matt Daniels, OT Sean Hooey, G Brandon Washington and DT Matt Conrath to the practice squad.

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS — Signed CB Derrius Brooks, CB Brandon Dixon, LB Carlos Fields and S Kimario McFadden to the practice squad.

TENNESSEE TITANS — Agreed to terms with K Ryan Succop and LB Quentin Groves. Waived K Travis Coons and LB Patrick Bailey. Signed CB Ri'Shard Anderson, LB Dontay Moch, CB Khalid Wooten and TE Orson Charles to the practice squad.

WASHINGTON REDSKINS — Signed S Akeem Davis and LB Chaz Sutton to the practice squad.

COLLEGE

HOLY CROSS — Named Tim Murray men's assistant soccer coach.

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