New York Jets: 5 Players integral to success in 2018

The New York Jets don’t have lofty expectations from most people, but they do have a chance to be more successful than people think in 2018.

The 2018 New York Jets may not seem like a playoff team to many, but based on 2017 winning records (.477), the Jets strength of schedule is tied for 25th in the NFL (per CBS Sports). So fans believing the schedule will be “tough,” it’s not as tough as some believe.

The schedule includes the Bears, Titans, Lions, Dolphins (twice) and Browns. Those teams aren’t exactly world beaters, and considering the start off against the Lions and Dolphins, it could be a good way to gain some confidence.

The Jets are better than many perceive them to be as well. Two of their offensive linemen are returning from injury, and with an improved secondary, you should see an improved pass rush.

So, who will are the key players for the Jets in 2018? Let’s explore.

FB/TE Dimitri Flowers

With tight end Chris Herndon likely to be suspended after his DUI arrest, the Jets will be limited in pass-catching tight ends early on. They did sign Flowers as an undrafted free agent, and his versatility to play fullback and the various tight end (in-line tight end, H-back, wingback) position will be key early on in the absence of Herndon.

His presence could give the Jets more options in terms of personnel they deploy. They could run 12 personnel (one back, two tight ends), 21 personnel, or even some 22 personnel — if they want to attack from the backfield and provide the offensive line with an extra blocker.