The New York Jets: A Look at 2008

2007 Record: 4-12

Major Personnel Losses: Anthony Clement (OT), Erik Coleman (S), Andre Dyson (CB), Victor Hobson (LB), Justin McCareins (WR), Hank Poteat (CB), Sean Ryan (TE), Wade Smith (C), Marques Tuiasosopo (QB)

Free Agent Signings: Jesse Chatman (RB), Alan Faneca (G), Bubba Franks (TE), Calvin Pace (LB), Tony Richardson (RB), Damien Woody (G), Kris Jenkins (DT), Artrell Hawkins (S), Musa Smith (RB), Andre Woolfolk (CB), Cameron Worrell (S).

Draft Picks:

Round One: Vernon Gholston (DE)

Round One: Dustin Keller (TE)

Round Four: Dwight Lowery (CB)

Round Five: Erik Ainge (QB)

Round Six: Marcus Henry (WR)

Round Seven: Nate Garner (OT)

Schedule: (Prediction)

Week 1: @ Miami (W)

Week 2: New England (L)

Week 3: @ San Diego (L)

Week 4: Arizona (W)

Week 5: BYE WEEK

Week 6: Cincinnati (L)

Week 7: @ Oakland (L)

Week 8: Kansas City (W)

Week 9: @ Buffalo (L)

Week 10: St. Louis (W)

Week 11: @ New England (L)

Week 12: @ Tennessee (L)

Week 13: Denver (W)

Week 14: @ San Francisco (L)

Week 15: Buffalo (W)

Week 16: @ Seattle (L)

Week 17: Miami (W)

Offense

It's hard to criticize the Jets this offseason. They may be guilty of overpaying for some of their newly acquired players, but at least they went out and took steps to improve their team.

Be that as it may, the Jets have a myriad of problems to address after their 2007 season. Their biggest concern is the one they have yet to address. Their quarterback situation is still murky, with both Chad Pennington and Kellen Clemens competing for the starting role.

Whichever wins the QB battle should have far better protection than last year, when the Jets gave up 53 sacks. The Jets have upgraded their offensive line with guards Alan Faneca and Damien Woody, and should have far better pass protection than in 2007.

The Jets' passing game was mediocre in 2007, only generating 3,330 yards on 512 attempts. Chad Pennington's 68 percent completion percentage was the bright spot; however, his 9/10 interception-touchdown ratio was disappointing.

The rushing game showed some signs of life, with Thomas Jones rushing for 1,119 yards; however, he took 310 attempts to do so. With a far stronger offensive line this year, he should be able to achieve more yards per carry.

The receiving corps returns much the same as last year, and both Jerricho Cotchery and Laveranues Coles should look to improve on their 2007 numbers. With an inexperienced QB, it will be important that Chris Baker gets his contract sorted out, so that the Jets have a viable TE. Bubba Franks should also help in this regard. Look for lots of two tight-end formations.

Defense

The defense also received a boost this offseason. Calvin Pace and Kris Jenkins were brought in during free agency, and Vernon Gholston was selected in the first round of the draft.

The Jets' surrendered 3,154 yards through the air last year, and 2,156 on the ground. This year, however, they have strengthened the D-line and have assembled a formidable front seven.

With the two, new outside linebackers (Pace and Gholston), the Jets should be able to get significantly more pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The Jets only managed 29 sacks in 2007, but they should increase that figure this year.

With the additions to the secondary (Artrell Hawkins, Andre Woolfolk, Cameron Worrell), the pass defense should also be improved. They will also be assisted by an easier schedule.

Outlook

Look for the Jets to post a 7-9 record, with a significant improvement in their play. However, the play of their quarterback is going to be the issue that holds them back.

I feel that with their dependence on the running game, the Jets will struggle to score points. However, if the QB gets established early, and can manage the offense throughout the season, the Jets may be able to accumulate some wins.

I think they probably need another year to develop as a team and settle their offense, but this looks like a team that is building a solid base for the future.

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