The Jets’ quarterback scenario at Thursday’s practice looked quite similar to Wednesday’s, where rookie Brady Cook took most of the first-team snaps.
During the open practice sessions, the only two quarterbacks donning red non-contact jerseys were Cook, who filled in for Tyrod Taylor after a groin injury in last Sunday’s game, and Adrian Martinez, recently signed as a backup option.
Neither Taylor nor Justin Fields, who mentioned some knee soreness last week, participated in practices, leaving their status for the upcoming game against the Jaguars uncertain.
Jets offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand commented on Cook, saying, “As an undrafted rookie free agent from Missouri, he’s shown considerable improvement from OTAs to now, and we’re pleased with his progress.”
In addition to Taylor and Fields, the Jets’ injury report on Thursday included running back Breece Hall (knee), tight end Mason Taylor (neck), running back Quincy Williams (hand), Kiko Mauigoa (neck), tight end Stone Smart (concussion), and cornerback Azaleye Thomas (shoulder), all of whom also missed practice the day before.
This season, the Jets are recognized for having one of the strongest special teams units in the NFL, boasting the league’s best record with four touchdown returns alongside solid punt and kick plays.
However, a potential matchup might be challenging against the Jaguars. Jacksonville’s Parker Washington has matched the Jets’ Isaiah Williams with the same number of touchdowns on punt returns.
Jets special teams coach Chris Banjo mentioned, “Parker Washington is dynamic. He possesses a wide range of abilities.”
Nick Folk has been effective for the Jets, successfully converting 23 out of 24 field goal attempts. In contrast, Jacksonville’s 22-year-old kicker, Cam Little, achieved an NFL-record 68-yard field goal this season and made one from 70 yards during preseason.
Banjo remarked, “He’s incredibly talented. They’ve given him opportunities to grow, and he’s earned that.”
He also noted that the fake punt executed against the Dolphins last Sunday had been in the works for quite some time.
“During game day, things move quickly; sometimes the execution isn’t perfect. The pitch wasn’t ideal… but you know, I take that back,” Banjo explained, smiling.
He added that the pitch from Malachi Moore to running back Isaiah Davis was so low that Davis had to make the catch like a baseball shortstop, yet it still worked out thanks to his effort.
Banjo concluded, “It’s tough to view anything Zai does negatively. If something doesn’t go right, it’s usually a coaching issue.” He hinted that he wouldn’t divulge details about how long the play had been in the works but mentioned that the players gained confidence in it over time, and it was gratifying for them to see it succeed.
