Jets Players Look to Make Impact Amid Changes

The Jets are beginning to explore the potential that their recent trades might bring, particularly with two first-round picks acquired in the Sauce Gardner deal. Garrett Wilson is optimistic about the quicker impact of former Colts receiver Adonai Mitchell.

“He’s a dog,” Wilson remarked on Thursday. “He had a rough day at practice… but I believe in him.” He went on to emphasize Mitchell’s size and ability to make tough catches, saying, “He’s hard to tackle, and you watch him move and think, oh, he doesn’t move like that size. He’s really in control of his body.” 

Wilson expressed excitement about utilizing Mitchell’s skills, noting, “I’m looking forward to seeing what he does because he has everything it takes.”

Mitchell, who is slated to be a second-round pick in 2024, hasn’t had stellar statistics in his first two years, largely due to issues with Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson’s accuracy and a noticeable decrease in playing time following a costly fumble against the Rams this season.

Despite the challenges, he’s gained recognition for his skill. “He’s probably better at separation than anyone in this league,” noted Colts wide receivers coach Reggie Wayne recently. His potential has not gone unnoticed by the Jets’ coaching staff.

“We really like his size, his speed, his physical attributes,” Jets offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand shared. “I remember evaluating him when he came out. We thought highly of him and really liked his skill set.”

Jets wide receivers coach Sean Jefferson indicated that Mitchell, along with recently acquired receiver John Metchie III, might see limited action when facing the Browns on Sunday.

“Just keep it simple,” Jefferson stated. “We’re still preparing it so we can put it on the field.”

Switching focus to defense, Steve Wilkes, the Jets’ defensive coordinator, is grappling with the absence of key players like Gardner and Quinnen Williams. His priority is figuring out how to compensate for this loss as the defense currently sits 27th in the league for scoring.

“We can’t sit here and dwell on the past,” Wilkes commented. “They’re great players and great people, but we can’t cancel the season. We need to put the pressure on and get ready for the game.” He stressed the need to focus on the current team.

This includes new additions like defensive tackle Maji Smith, a first-round pick acquired in a transaction with Dallas, and cornerback Jasir Taylor, who joined after a trade from the Chargers for a conditional seventh-round pick in 2028.

“It’s a great addition for us,” Wilkes said, expressing satisfaction with the new players. “Taylor offers flexibility in our secondary, while Maji can help with stopping the run. We just need to familiarize them with the playbook and see how things unfold.”

On the injury front, running back Khalil Herbert (groin) and offensive lineman Xavier Newman (ankle) were listed as limited participants in Thursday’s practice. Additionally, Wilson (knee) and linebacker Kiko Mauigoa were also limited.