New York Jets Secondary Takes A Hit

General manager John Idzik and the New York Jets had a good offseason, adding key pieces such as Chris Johnson and Eric Decker on the offensive side of the ball. Idzik’s biggest mistake though was not addressing the cornerback position. By not adding a player like Darrelle Revis or re-signing veteran defensive back Antonio Cromartie, the Jets are left with very few options on the back end of their defense. Gang Green boasts one of the top front-sevens in the NFL, but their secondary is very thin.

Aug 4, 2014; Cortland, NY, USA; New York Jets free safety Antonio Allen (39) defends wide receiver Stephen Hill (84) during drills at training camp at SUNY Cortland. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports

Looking at the secondary going into Monday’s practice, it appeared that the opening day corners would be Dee Milliner and offseason addition Dimitri Patterson. New York suffered two huge setbacks on Monday though, after rookie third round pick Dexter McDougle went down for the season with a torn ACL and Milliner injured his ankle. While Milliner’s injury isn’t too serious, likely putting him out 3 to 4 weeks, it is enough of a concern for Rex Ryan and the Jets. ESPN.com writer Rich Cimini reported that safety Antonio Allen has moved to cornerback and could be in line to start going forward.

Luckily for the Jets, the addition of rookie Calvin Pryor allows them to be flexible at the safety spot, which also includes Dawan Landry and Jaiquawn Jarrett. When asked about the cornerback situation, Rex Ryan said, “I believe in the depth of our team.” I’m sure the majority of Jets fans don’t necessarily have the same optimism as Coach Ryan though. It is kind of hard not to give him the benefit of the doubt, considering his track record with defenses.