What now with the D-Line?
With Sione Pouha sidelined, and Monsanto Pope having left the camp for “personal reasons” what's the story with the line?
First, hopefully Pouha's knee injury isn't too serious, but obviously no one really knows anything at this point. As far as Monsanto Pope, word among the beat writers is that he won't be returning to the team. I am not so convinced. I understand that it might be that he can't hack it, but no one knows if there was a family emergency or anything… if he wasn't coming back, why wouldn't Mangini just say that he was cut and be done with it? Pope is probably the most battle tested non-starting lineman that the Jets have, so it will be interesting to see if some of the young players or rookies (like Titus Adams) can step it up while Pope is not with the team.
More as it develops…
Filed under: Main Page, Opinion/Bassett
Based on my Belichick-to-English dictionary, the proper course of action would be to convert Troy Brown to a lineman.
Honestly, though, I've heard mixed things on Pope. Some imply he should be back, others he's a goner. If he's definately a goner, I'm guessing Mangini hasn't said anything re: roster status because a) he doesn't have to b) I think he likes letting people know that if you can't hack it, there's always the door and c) there is always the opportunity to move the player.
What now? Well as long as Robertson continues to impress, there's no reason to think that he won't factor into the starting roster or at least the rotation. I also expect some bloodshed from other teams in terms of veterans, so don't be surprised to see some incoming roster action in the next few days and weeks.
Kimo has been playing some DT too.
Dave Ball has been getting some reps at DT in nickel packages.
I guess McChesney is in the mix as well – and Tui Alailefaleula. Brennan Schmidt is listed as a DT but he wouldn't be able to play nose because he's too small.
Other than that, we do seem a little light. Perhaps we will look to add a guy from elsewhere. If it's just for a back-up we will probably wait and then cherry-pick someone from another team's practice squad, if no-one decent becomes available.
any word (or observations from trips to camp) on the 5th receiver spot? i haven't heard anything about brad smith recently. is there even another serious contender?