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 We hear that the Jets’ dramatic rise in sack production from last year — 13 in the first four games — can be attributed to one man: Kris Jenkins. The player whom the Jets traded for in the offseason has been the unquestioned defensive MVP of the team thus far, tying up multiple interior offensive linemen to open up lanes to the quarterback for the Jets’ other box defenders.
The credit for Laveranues Coles’ expanding role in the Jets’ offense doesn’t go to Brett Favre or offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer. Rather, it goes to Coles himself. Word out of New York is that Coles approached Schottenheimer and head coach Eric Mangini prior to Week Three and let them know that he feels he could be a far bigger cog in the offense than he was at the start of the season.
Ko Simpson won a heated training-camp battle with George Wilson for the right to be the Bills’ starting free safety, and thus far, he’s done little to convince the coaches that they made the correct decision. The problem is that Wilson is hardly a sound choice either, so Buffalo is almost forced to forge ahead with a safety they lack confidence in.
The Dolphins took a risk during the offseason in re-signing SS Yeremiah Bell, who had missed almost all of 2007 with a torn Achilles tendon. Word we’re hearing out of Miami is that the Fins couldn’t be more pleased with Bell’s play, as he’s developed into a tremendous physical presence. He only signed a one-year contract but could be extended soon.
It’s a testament to Wes Welker’s toughness that he has managed to stay on the field so much despite the fact that the Patriots’ small slot receiver has taken a cascade of vicious hits.
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