With NFL training camps all set to open this coming week, we shift our attention to which New York Jets players will shine.
You know it. I know it. Hell, even your mom and dad know it.
The same script is written every National Football League season.
When NFL training camps open up in late July, stars are suddenly born. Well, the term stars is an extremely loose one, for these are “practice” stars.
RELATED: Predicting The Jets 53-Man Roster; 4 QBs Kept
All 32 teams have them. They come in all shapes and sizes. These guys could show face for the first time in their career in building an incredible future, or simply show face and stun the world until the reason season starts – at which point they fade away into oblivion.
As far as the New York Jets are concerned, not much is different.
When training camp opens up on Wednesday, July 28, practice stars will be born. The question is, “Who will they be this time around?”
Luckily for you, ESNY has your back.
Here are a few names to watch out for when the term “training camp star” is being bandied about at Florham Park, NJ this August.
Next: The Explosive One
Jalin Marshall, WR/KR
Not even feeling what it was like to be drafted on the third day, young Jalin Marshall has already made a semi-name for himself.
Thanks to rookie camp and voluntary minicamp, Marshall has a cult-like following in and around news outlets. Despite no evidence that he’ll even crack the top six wide receivers, many have already suggested he could be a vital part of the Jets offense.
He’s explosive. He’s dripping with vision, as he should be (the former running back).
While it’s true, the Jets do possess two fantastic starting caliber wide receivers in Brandon Marshall and Eric Decker, a third shifty-type guy is needed. Marshall fits the bill perfectly.
Next: 4th Time’s A Charm?
Geno Smith, QB
Will he or won’t he? This will be the main question.
Even if Ryan Fitzpatrick does walk through those doors, look for Geno Smith to shine this summer.
All indications, up to this point, have the fourth-year mobile quarterback well ahead of Christian Hackenberg and Bryce Petty. In fact, it’s not even close.
Taking it a step further, Geno’s head and shoulders ahead of where he was at this time last season.
Whether or not Fitz comes back does effect the man, but expect him to play well this preseason.
Next: Staying Healthy
Ryan Clady, LT
Quite honestly, all Ryan Clady has to do in order to be a training camp stud is stay healthy.
If the seven year, 2-time first team NFL All-Pro stays healthy and on the field, he’ll be an instant upgrade over the aging D’Brickashaw Ferguson.
It’ll be realized right away by all involved in the offense.
Next: Something To Prove
Darron Lee, LB
Whether or not the 232 lbs. rookie linebacker can fit into the base 3-4 scheme will be the major question mark this summer.
We know David Harris is the No. 1 guy. We also know Darron Lee is the No. 1 guy in pass sub packages.
Or do we?
RELATED: Expect Many More 4-3 Looks From The Jets In 2016
The plan is, obviously, for Lee to be the guy in nickel and dime situations. His new-age speedy linebacker ways of this pass happy league is just what the doctor ordered for these Jets. Harris struggles mightily in pass situations and Lee’s selection fits a definite need.
However, look for Lee to shine to such an extent that’ll it’ll force Todd Bowles to look to run more 4-3 looks in a base situation. He’s a perfect WILL fit alongside Harris as the MIKE.
Next: The Third Wheel
Sheldon Richardson, DL
When Muhammad Wilkerson inked his name on that 5-year, $86 million deal last week, it meant one surefire thing for the New York Jets defense.
The third wheel along the front-line went from Big Mo to Sheldon Richardson.
The talent is unquestionable. Sheldon’s 2013 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year didn’t happen accidentally. His blend of quickness and strength playing pretty much any spot in a three or four man front is something all football personnel decision makers drool over.
Now, though, because Wilkerson is here for the long haul, Richardson will have to prove his worth on and off the field to earn his own mega dollar deal.
Look for Sheldon go come out guns a blazing this summer.
Next: The Big Cat
Leonard Williams, DL
The moment all New York Jets fans knew the new regime of Mike Maccagnan and Todd Bowles were for real, was when they made their very first draft pick.
Instead of passing up the gift that was Leonard Williams with the No. 6 pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, they accepted it graciously.
Mikey Mac and the Jets could’ve made the “positional need” excuse and passed him up. After all, Muhammad Wilkerson and Sheldon Richardson were employed. Instead, they took the most talented player.
Williams enjoyed a modest rookie year. His three sacks and 34 total tackles are nothing in comparison to what he’ll do in 2016. And he’ll take advantage of his alongside Sheldon early in training camp while Big Mo starts on the PUP list.
Next: Oh Canada
Freddie Bishop III, OLB
Freddie Bishop is nothing more than a wild card.
He could easily be cut in August, or actually surprise everybody to the tune of a starting outside linebacker spot.
With solid speed and size, Bishop will be in direct competition with Lorenzo Mauldin and rookie Jordan Jenkins for the two starting edge spots. Because the position is so wide open – and so desperate of a player needing to step up – Bishop’s 11 sacks with the Calgary Stampeders of the CFL in 2015 looks pretty promising.
He’s a freak athlete. The kind of athlete who shines at practice.