New York Jets: Early 2018 starting lineup projections, offense
The New York Jets have completed two rounds of OTA’s. Here we take an early look at starting lineup projections for their offensive unit.
The first two rounds of organized team activities (OTAs) for the New York Jets are in the books. Gang Green is coming off a 5-11 campaign last year so there is a great deal of improvement that needs to be shown on the gridiron in 2018.
Even though the NFL regular season does not kick off for another three months, it’s time to take a very early look at how New York’s starting offensive lineup shapes up with training camp forthcoming at the end of July.
Let’s take a look at each position as presently constituted. Don’t forget that Jeremy Bates is their new offensive coordinator, replacing John Morton.
Quarterback
Josh McCown
The question on everyone’s lips all summer long will be: when will Sam Darnold be ready to take over as New York’s starting quarterback? That will probably have to wait until sometime during the regular season while the former USC star adjusts to the pro game. When Darnold is ready to play though, head coach Todd Bowles should insert him into the starting lineup and not look back. He is their future and hopefully their long-awaited franchise signal-caller.
For now though, veteran Josh McCown appears to be the starter based on his fine performance last season. Bowles still has to win games and McCown gives them the best shot at doing just that while Darnold develops. Watch out for free agent signee Teddy Bridgewater though. He’s looked very good in OTAs so far. He’s coming back from a devastating knee injury but he’s very talented and has much to prove. Keep an eye on him. It would not shock me if he unseated McCown if he continues to impress. With that being said, this is McCown’s job to lose. For now.
Running backs
Isaiah Crowell (HB)
Lawrence Thomas (FB)
The Jets signed the 25-year old Crowell to a three-year contract in March in hopes that he’ll become their featured back. The 5-11, 225-pounder compiled a career-high 206 carries for the hapless Cleveland Browns last year. He averaged 4.1 yards per tote and added a pair of touchdowns.
Crowell replaces the retired Matt Forte and is expected to get the lions share of rushes in New York’s backfield. He gained 3,118 yards and scored 21 touchdowns in four seasons with Cleveland. He’ll team in the backfield with Bilal Powell and Elijah McGuire. Thomas Rawls and this year’s seventh round draft pick Trenton Cannon will have to make the 53-man roster. Crowell is a decent pass receiver as well but Powell should handle most of the third down duties.
Thomas is a former defensive lineman who will be entering his third season with Gang Green. He’s the favorite to start at fullback on short yardage and goal-line scenarios but he has not locked up a roster spot just yet. Dimitri Flowers may have some say in that.