The Jets' failed and costly Dalvin Cook experiment opened a wider door for a receptive rookie.
After signing a one-year contract worth $6.8 million, Cook was openly dissatisfied with his playing time in New York.
The sixth-year veteran is coming off his fourth consecutive 1,000-yard rushing season with the Vikings, gaining 214 yards on 67 rushing attempts with no touchdowns in 15 games.
Israel Avanikanda benefits from the Jets' removal of Cook, who signed with the Super Bowl-contending Ravens after being waived by the Jets on Tuesday.
“Oh, for sure. I definitely feel grateful and blessed. I knew it was getting close to the time to start playing and things like that,” Abanikananda told the Post on Thursday. “Even when I'm not playing, I want to continue to work and take advantage of my opportunities like I've always done. I still have the same mindset and continue to sharpen.”
Known for his speed, the 21-year-old has 19 rushing attempts for 64 yards and seven receptions for 43 yards in five games. Although he has spent most of his time on the sidelines, Abanikananda doesn't see that as a disadvantage.
He studied his mentors Cook Hall and Breece Hall and observed how they worked to improve themselves when the opportunity came.
“We'll see how they turn out.” [Hall and Cook] Running through the defense, how to protect the quarterback, how to pick up blitzes. I watch their movements and try to see how I can do them in practice even when I'm not playing,'' he explained. “I learned a lot just by watching the field. And seeing things like how a defensive player’s body wears down, I have fresh legs, so I learned a lot from that. Can I use it to my advantage?”
Coach Hall praised his replacement, saying he has “all the tools” to succeed in this league.
“He broke the strategy. Now he's getting more reps, so he's going to get even better,” he said Friday.
Michael Clemons got emotional during Week 17's game against the Browns, yelling “fuck you” at Cleveland fans throughout the game, which ended in a 37-20 loss.
On Friday, head coach Robert Saleh was asked if he had to talk to Clemons about this and other inexperience throughout the season, and said he always does, adding, “He'll be one of the first.” added. These are the people you call to watch your children. ”
“Sometimes we take a small part of someone's life and try to portray them that way,” Saleh says. “Believe it or not, he's an incredibly thoughtful and kind person. It doesn't overshadow who he is, but he's a great guy and I'm glad these pieces are coming out.” It's possible, but if you really know this guy, you want to be around him.”
Saleh said OL Wes Schweitzer (calf) will miss Sunday's game against the Patriots.
“Other than that, everything will stay the same from an injury standpoint,” the coach said.
