Wide receiver Malachi Coley is in a tough spot.
The Jets' 2024 third-round pick would like to play a bigger role on game day, although the Jets already have several established options, including Garrett Wilson, Davante Adams and Allen Lazard. And the rookie is in charge of the position.
Corey said he understands his situation, but that doesn't make it easier to deal with, especially since he said he feels left in the dark about what the Jets want him to improve on. Not really.
Before Thursday's practice, passing game coordinator Todd Downing said Corey “has definitely been going through the season looking for more opportunities,” adding that the 22-year-old “has been playing in a better, more mature way.” I believe I'm learning how to deal with it.”
“Our priority is to win games, not ratings,” Downing said. “So we're going to do what we think puts us in the best position to compete and win games.
“Malachi has a bright future in this league and has the skill set that will ultimately help teams win football games. Right now, he's looking to get scraps from Davante, G, Allen, etc. He's fighting. So I think he's learning to be a professional.”
Corey had three catches for 16 yards and two rushes for 26 yards in eight games.
If he hadn't dropped the ball prematurely before it hit the end zone, he could have had a 20-yard touchdown run against the Texans in early November — one of the many bad moments of an unforgettable Jets season. It's one of the.
Corey said he has “a lot to learn” this season and is trying to get the most out of his reps in practice and work on the scout team.
He said the next time his name is called, he'll be ready.
“You have to take your job seriously every day and come to work as if you’re the rookie, as if you’re the guy, because at any given time, you go from playing no snaps to 50 in a game. Because even the play of the play can change,” Coley said. “So just being prepared, mentally just being there every day, taking mental reps, being conscious of what I'm doing, not just coming to work, I'm miserable, I'm I’m miserable, whatever, just really take the day.’ If I were really a man and this was my chance to show people who I was. ”
Corey said there hasn't been much talk about what it would take to be on the roster next season.
“I'm not sure,” he said.
In the meantime, he plans to focus on becoming a more complete route runner and improving his technique this offseason.
“I hope they see me in a bigger role next year,” he said.
It remains to be determined whether Adams and cornerback Sauce Gardner will be available for Sunday's game in Buffalo.
According to the team's injury report, Adams (hip) and Gardner (hamstring) did not practice for the second consecutive day.
Gardner left Sunday's game with a hamstring injury, but Adams' hip issue was even more of a surprise.
It's unclear whether either will be available to play this weekend.
Meanwhile, quarterback Aaron Rodgers participated fully in practice despite a knee injury.
Morgan Moses (knee) and Aaliyah Vera Tucker (ankle) also did not participate in Thursday's practice, but Tony Adams (ankle), Michael Carter II (back), Brayden McGregor (ankle), Haason Reddick (neck) and John Simpson also did not participate. (calf) and Quinnen Williams (hamstring) had their limitations in practice.
Left tackle Olu Fashanu has been placed on injured reserve with plantar fasciitis in his left foot, starting a battle for a starting spot.
Max Mitchell appears to be the clear front-runner to replace Fashanu, who was injured in Sunday's home game against the Rams.
According to Pro Football Focus, Mitchell has played 97 snaps in eight games, mostly at right guard.
Still, Downing said Thursday that nothing has been decided yet and that Carter Warren may be another possibility.
“In terms of options for this week and next week, that competition will start here in a few hours,” Downing said. “Max and Carter have done a great job with the opportunities given to them, even though they were called up on short notice, and we look forward to seeing who comes out on top.”
Warren has played 51 snaps in four games this season, making him the second player in the NFL to do so.
