Bassett used the term “in-line blocker” which usually connotes a run blocker because a pass blocker steps back from the line of scrimmage. The second sentence about Brown and Milner seemed to build on the initial sentence to say that they are unknown quantities as “in-line blockers” and then he used the conjunction “and” to make an additional point about helping Brick with the pass rush. At least, that’s how I interpreted Bassett’s point (so, Ian, I actually didn’t skim Bassett’s post). I do not think that he was limiting his comments to pass blocking because, as Ian points out, the TE usually goes out for a pass on passing downs and, the Jets during Schott’s tenure have used the TE as a pass catcher almost more than any other team in the NFL.

DSmizzle,

I respectfully disagree. Great pass-catching TEs are rarely good run-blockers and there have been many great rushing teams that used the TE primarily as a pass catcher. An extra blocker is nice, but that can adversely affect the passing game. The Jets have a great FB lead blocker. IMO, the only reason the Jets would need a run blocking TE is in short yardage to spread the defense out. Keller is such a weapon as a pass catcher that the OLB will usually cover him and the DE will chuck him. That occupies 2 defensive players without Keller trying to block.

I have to disagree on the issue of blocking TE’s.

Yes, its not an absolute necessity for a great running game to have a good blocking TE, but its also not a necessity for a great running game to have a great LT or RT.

A great blocking TE is a plus for a running game, period. Even if you can get by without one.

OTOH, the Ravens, realizing this last year, threw a lot of long passes and not just on 3rd down. The idea was as long as they were not going to pass their way consistently down the field, and with a Good D able to to deal with not so great field position, why not be more audacious and throw it up for grabs.

Ryan saw how far a rookie Qb went with that approach.

I expect to see a lot more long tosses this year, regardless of the Qb, especially if the D holds up as many of us hope.

harlan

also: sackdance seems to have skimmed, rather than read basset’s post. with that said, i’m not sure how much a TE helps in pass protection either. how often does TE stay in? i think the RB/FB is more important in pass protection than TE. presumably, that is one area where TJ would be much better than green.

Interesting comment and unless you’re having a separate conv. w/Bassett, I fail to see where he says there is a correlation for a good running game between a TE and RB. Bassett’s comments were between a QB and a TE on sacks.

I don’t think its a case of the Jets worrying about the fans getting wet, as much as it is about not being able to fit them (the fans) into the indoor practice facility.