NEW YORK JETS DAILY CLIPS

June 5, 2014

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Table of Contents

ASSOCIATED PRESS ................................................................................................................................................ 2

Vick young at heart as Jets' elder statesman (Dennis Waszak) ................................................................................. 2

Jets' Milliner sits out OTA with tight hamstring (Dennis Waszak) ............................................................................. 2

METRO NEW YORK ................................................................................................................................................ 3

Calvin Pryor on the field for Jets fresh off signing rookie deal (Kristian Dyer) .......................................................... 3

THE RECORD .......................................................................................................................................................... 5

Eric Decker, Dee Milliner miss Jet workout (J.P. Pelzman) ........................................................................................ 5

NEW YORK POST .................................................................................................................................................... 6

Jets’ new corner: I’ll make the plays (Brian Costello) ................................................................................................ 6

Eric Decker picks award show date with wife over Jets practice (Brian Costello) .................................................... 7

NEW YORK DAILY NEWS ........................................................................................................................................ 7

NY Jets secondary has lots of new faces - and question marks - with Dee Milliner and Dimitri Patterson (Seth Walder) ...................................................................................................................................................................... 7

NY Jets WR Eric Decker skips OTA session with Rex Ryan's OK to help wife Jessie James present at CMT award show (Seth Walder) ................................................................................................................................................... 8

NEW YORK TIMES .................................................................................................................................................. 9

Jets’ Breno Giacomini Walks the Line on Offense (Ben Shpigel) ............................................................................... 9

ESPN NEW YORK .................................................................................................................................................. 10

Smith, Vick stick to their scripts (Jane McManus) ................................................................................................... 10

Decker skips OTA for CMT Music Awards (Kieran Darcy) ........................................................................................ 12

Jets OTA Report: Milliner's hamstring issue (Kieran Darcy) .................................................................................... 12

New Jets CB Patterson talking big game (Kieran Darcy).......................................................................................... 13

Notes: Jets welcome Portugal (Jane McManus)...................................................................................................... 14

THE STAR LEDGER ................................................................................................................................................ 15

Calvin Pryor debuts at Jets' OTAs, practices with first-team defense (Darryl Slater) .............................................. 15

Mike Goodson still a no-show at Jets OTAs, as Rex Ryan says, 'We haven't seen him' (Darryl Slater) ................... 16

Jets' Rex Ryan says Dexter McDougle's shoulder strength varies depending on how he tests it (Darryl Slater) .... 18

After overcoming 'terrible mental mountain climb,' Jets' Dimitri Patterson gets his chance (Darryl Slater) ......... 19

Rookie Jace Amaro frustrated by struggles to learn Jets' offense (Darryl Slater) ................................................... 20

NJ.COM ................................................................................................................................................................ 22

Eric Decker skips Jets OTAs for country music awards show. So what? (Dom Cosentino) ..................................... 22

Jets OTAs: Cornerback Dee Milliner sits out practice with hamstring tightness (Dom Cosentino) ......................... 23

Geno Smith: Any confusion over Jets QB situation 'a matter of semantics' (Dom Cosentino) ............................... 23

Daily Clips Cont.

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Antwan Barnes may not be healthy in time for Jets training camp, Rex Ryan says (Dom Cosentino) .................... 24

WEDNESDAY’S SPORTS TRANSACTIONS............................................................................................................... 25

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Vick young at heart as Jets' elder statesman (Dennis Waszak) Associated Press June 4, 2014

http://pro32.ap.org/article/vick-young-heart-jets-elder-statesman

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. (AP) — Michael Vick isn't ready to break out the cane and rocking chair just yet.

Yes, the New York Jets quarterback will be 34 later this month and is the oldest player on the roster. And, sure, some of the team's recent draft picks were 9 or 10 when Vick was drafted in 2001.

Just don't call him "sir."

One Jets fullback — either Tommy Bohanon or undrafted free agent Chad Young — recently said, "Yes, sir," after taking direction from Vick in the huddle, and it took him by surprise. The veteran quarterback jokingly says if teammates keep calling him "sir," he needs to start thinking about retirement.

Vick says it "definitely makes me feel old" when people tell him they played as him on video games as kids.

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Jets' Milliner sits out OTA with tight hamstring (Dennis Waszak) Associated Press June 4, 2014

http://pro32.ap.org/article/jets-milliner-sits-out-ota-tight-hamstring

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. (AP) — New York Jets cornerback Dee Milliner sat out practice Wednesday with tightness in his left hamstring, and is not sure when he will return to the field.

The practice, the team's fifth organized team activity session, was the first Milliner has missed this offseason after experiencing symptoms earlier in the week.

"It's just precautionary," Milliner said. "I feel fine."

Milliner, in his second season, had a rough start to his rookie year while dealing with hamstring issues early. He is expected to take over this season for Antonio Cromartie as the team's No. 1 cornerback, making this latest injury — however minor — cause at least some concern for the Jets.

"He has to understand that he's got to be in extraordinary shape," coach Rex Ryan said. "His challenge will be to be in world-class shape because we've got to have you out there. He needs to be out there and he needs to get work, because that's how he's going get better."

Ryan said Milliner, the No. 9 overall pick last year, had been having a good offseason before this setback. The coach was encouraged by Milliner's progress last season, particularly in the final month.

"You saw it as the year went on last year, he got better because of the work on the practice field and in the classroom," Ryan said. "He was taking off from there, and you don't want to see this happen. He's got to step it up, because I think he's got all the talent in the world."

Milliner, who stood on the sideline during team drills, acknowledged that there's a bit of frustration not being able to participate.

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"It bothers me because I want to be out there on the field with my teammates getting better during OTAs," he said. "In another way, it's fine because I know (I'm not) injured or hurt that bad."

Wide receiver Eric Decker also was among those who did not participate. He is in Nashville with wife and recording artist Jessie James for the CMT Music Awards, at which they will be presenters.

Ryan had no issue with the team's top receiver not being at the voluntary workouts.

"Well, speaking as a married guy, (I) absolutely recommend that you would go to that," a smiling Ryan said. "So that would be recommended, I think. You know, you ask for their support, you need to support them, too."

Meanwhile, running back Mike Goodson, coming off a knee injury and facing legal troubles, has yet to show for any of the team's OTAs. Ryan again stressed that the practice sessions are voluntary, but added: "He volunteered not to be here, and I'll volunteer to not answer the question."

Goodson roster status is in serious doubt, aside from facing weapons charges. The Jets also have Chris Ivory, Chris Johnson, Bilal Powell, Alex Green and Daryl Richardson at the position. And, the team isn't quite certain how much Goodson has been able to do in his rehabilitation from the injury.

"I'm not going to speculate because he's not here and I don't know where he is," Ryan said about Goodson's rehab. "We haven't seen him, so I can't answer that question."

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METRO NEW YORK

Calvin Pryor on the field for Jets fresh off signing rookie deal (Kristian Dyer) Metro New York June 4, 2014

http://www.metro.us/newyork/sports/nfl/2014/06/04/calvin-pryor-field-jets-fresh-signing-rookie-deal/

Jets safety Calvin Pryor signed his rookie contract Monday, ensuring the much-hyped first-round pick wouldn’t miss offseason workouts or training camp. While getting the deal done was important to him, he said it was equally important to not miss time on the field.

Pryor learned a lesson from last year’s top selection, Dee Milliner. The Alabama cornerback, who was taken No. 9 overall by the Jets in the 2013 NFL Draft, missed offseason workouts recovering from a shoulder injury and ended up as a training camp holdout while a deal was worked out. The time away from the field cost him valuable reps where he could have been learning the defense and getting settled in. Some of Milliner’s early season struggles last year can be attributed to his absence.

“I didn’t want to have the issue going into training camp or anything further down the line where I have to sit out or not focus on ball,” Pryor said. “Now that it’s over, I can focus on the ball. I didn’t want this lasting long. I wanted it done and I wanted to be here and not have that distraction.”

Last week, Pryor told Milliner that the deal was close to being done, news that was greeted warmly by the Jets cornerback. Milliner’s advice, according to Pryor, was “to take care of it, get as good of a deal as you can and then focus on ball.”

Beyond the fresh ink on his contract, Pryor was back on the field on Wednesday after dental surgery precluded him from participation in organized team activities last week. Pryor was eager to make up for the reps and get back into the thick of things.

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Head coach Rex Ryan had Pryor run with the first-team defense in an effort to get him more comfortable and not rely on the veterans around him. According to Ryan, he showed well in his understanding of the defense.

Last week, he had three wisdom teeth removed and Wednesday represented his first time back on the field since the surgery.

“I had to sit out a couple days, let my wisdom teeth heal a bit,” Pryor said. “I’m kind of recovering from that. Everything is good — hurts a little bit now and then.”

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NEWSDAY

Curtis Martin wants to see true Geno Smith vs. Michael Vick competition (Bob Glauber) Newsday June 4, 2014

http://www.newsday.com/sports/columnists/bob-glauber/curtis-martin-wants-to-see-true-geno-smith-vs-michael-vick-competition-1.8336706

If it were up to Curtis Martin, the Jets would have a full-fledged competition to decide their starting quarterback: Open it up for Geno Smith and Michael Vick and see who comes out on top at the end of training camp, says the Jets' Hall of Fame running back.

"I think I would really have a genuine, whoever-wins-the-competition-in-camp type competition and whoever wins, that's who would start," Martin said Wednesday after being honored in New York as a Father of the Year by the National Father's Day Council. Proceeds from the event benefited the Save The Children Foundation. "There would be no favorites. It would just be whoever wins."

The Jets have been vague about just how open a competition there will be between Vick and Smith, although it doesn't appear that it will be the kind of wide-open affair Martin would like to see. But the Jets' all-time leading rusher believes it's in everyone's best interests to see who comes out on top in a fair fight.

"I think Vick is definitely a great addition, and I think that him and Geno will make each other better," said Martin, still looking fit enough to play in the NFL, although he said he still experiences knee and shoulder problems associated with his career. "Vick being an older guy, I know that, as competitive as he is, he's not going to want to sit on the bench. So I know he's going to push to be that starter as hard as possible. I think Geno is not going to want to lose his position, so I think it's great for competition and may the best man win."

Martin won't speculate which quarterback will be the Week 1 starter but suggested a lot will depend on how far Smith progresses in his second NFL season and whether that's good enough to overcome Vick's experience.

"I just know Mike and I know his experience, but guys can take huge leaps from one year to the next," Martin said.

As for Vick fitting in with his new teammates, Martin said it won't be a problem. He has known Vick for several years, and visited with the former Falcons quarterback while he served a jail sentence for running an illegal dogfighting operation.

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"I've known him and I've spoken to him, and I went and visited him when he was in jail in Leavenworth," Martin said. "I just wanted to talk to him. It went really, really well. He's a kindhearted guy, really. He's a good guy. He just got caught up in the wrong thing."

Martin, who was selected for the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2012, likes what he sees from the free-agent signing of former Broncos wide receiver Eric Decker as well.

"I think Decker is someone who is a very necessary part," Martin said. "I think they need that type of guy. He's just a blue-collar type of guy. He just gets the job done and makes plays. I think he will be good for them."

Martin is bullish on the Jets' playoff chances, but he understands things can change in a hurry.

"I think they have the potential to get there," he said. "They have the pieces. I think it's how they come together and how it plays out on the field. But just being in the league as long as I have, you just never know. All it takes is one injury and that can ruin everything."

Martin has firsthand experience. After helping the Jets to the AFC Championship Game after the 1998 season, Martin saw quarterback Vinny Testaverde suffer a season-ending Achilles injury in the first game of the 1999 season. The Jets went 8-8 and missed the playoffs.

Martin never got further than the AFC Championship Game with the Jets, same as current coach Rex Ryan, who went to the conference title game his first two seasons. But Martin believes Ryan, who hasn't had a winning season the last three years, is still the right man for the job.

"He's already done it," Martin said of Ryan. "They didn't have the best talent when they went to the AFC Championship Game those two years. Do I think he can do it? Yes. Do I think he's the man that can still lead this team? Yes, I do."

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THE RECORD

Eric Decker, Dee Milliner miss Jet workout (J.P. Pelzman) The Record June 5, 2014

http://www.northjersey.com/sports/football/decker-milliner-miss-jet-workout-1.1029721

FLORHAM PARK – When the Jets' starting offense and defense square off during training camp this summer, an interesting matchup figures to be the one between top wide receiver Eric Decker and No. 1 cornerback Dee Milliner.

However, there was no way for that duel to take place Wednesday, considering neither was on the field for the Jets' organized-team-activity practice — albeit for different reasons.

Decker, in fact, wasn't even in New Jersey. The fifth-year wideout, who was signed to a five-year, $36.25 million contract in March, was in Nashville, Tenn., with his wife, country singer Jessie James Decker. She was scheduled to be a presenter at the CMT Awards show Wednesday night.

Milliner sat out because of a tight left hamstring. He said he missed the practice for "precautionary reasons." Milliner, a first-round pick last year, had issues with the same hamstring last season.

Coach Rex Ryan didn't have a problem with Decker missing the OTA.

"Speaking as a married guy," Ryan said with a smile, "[it's] absolutely recommended that you would go to that."

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Turning more serious, he added, referring to players' families, "You ask for their support [and] you need to support them, too. … This is the time to do it. It's not like it happened during the season.

"Certainly we support Eric," he concluded.

As for Milliner, Ryan said, "he's got to step it up," seemingly implying that Milliner would not have tweaked his hamstring if he had been in tip-top shape.

BRIEFS: Several other players were missing, including embattled RB Mike Goodson, who hasn't been at OTAs at all. Goodson, who is facing weapons charges for an incident in May 2013, also is recovering from a major knee injury. Ryan said he has not seen him recently. ... WR Shaq Evans, a fourth-round pick, can't participate because he still is attending school at UCLA.

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NEW YORK POST

Jets’ new corner: I’ll make the plays (Brian Costello) New York Post June 4, 2014

http://nypost.com/2014/06/04/rex-frustrated-as-injury-bug-starts-early-for-dee-milliner/

Jets cornerback Dimitri Patterson wants you to concentrate on his game, not his name.

The new Jets corner is occupying what used to be a glamour position with the Jets. Just two years ago the Jets had Darrelle Revis and Antonio Cromartie, perhaps the best duo in the game at corner. Now, it’s Dee Milliner, who had a disappointing rookie season, and Patterson, a journeyman on his seventh team in 10 seasons.

“I don’t have a high-profile name, but I’ll put my film against anybody’s,” Patterson said after the Jets organized team activity on Wednesday. “That’s the reality of the situation.”

For Patterson, the comparison will be to Cromartie, whom the Jets released in March. Cromarite, who signed with the Cardinals, had a bad 2013 season, but he has a track record that includes Pro Bowls and being one of the top corners in the league when he is on his game.

Patterson, 30, had four interceptions last season for the Dolphins. He has nine in his career. The Jets signed him to a one-year, $3 million deal in April.

“In the schemes that I’ve played in I’ve been asked to do what Cromartie was asked to do,” Patterson said. “I don’t have a high profile, no. I don’t have the biggest name, no. But I’ve covered the same receivers. I’ve held up extremely well against the same receivers, the lead guys. They knew that about me.”

Cornerback is the biggest question mark on the Jets, and Patterson is not the only reason why. Milliner, the team’s first-round pick in 2013, sat out Wednesday’s OTA with tightness in his left hamstring. Injuries were a problem last year for Milliner, who missed three games and significant practice time last spring and summer.

Coach Rex Ryan already sounds annoyed Milliner has been sidelined.

“He has to understand that he has to be in extraordinary shape,” Ryan said. “His challenge is to be in world-class shape because we have to have you out there. He needs to be out there. He needs to get work because that’s how he’s going to get better.

“He’s got to step it up because I think he has all the talent in the world.”

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Injuries are the biggest knock on Patterson, too. He has played just eight games over the last two seasons with the Dolphins. The Jets are playing him on the outside right now, but he is viewed around the league as more of an inside nickel corner.

“He’s a nickel,” one league executive said. “He has good instincts and quickness. I question his deep recovery speed, but he plays with awareness and has good route feel. He’s good in zones and has ball skills. He’s ideally a third veteran with a good feel for the inside position. He’s not a great presence in run support, but tackles when he has to. Durability has been a little bit of an issue the last two seasons. So availability will be key.”

Patterson said the injury-prone rep he’s gained is not fair. He said he’s only had injuries the last two years and they were not major injuries — ankle and groin injuries.

“I look at it as the glass half full,” Patterson said. “I haven’t had a skill-diminishing injury. I haven’t had a career-threatening injury. I had an ankle [injury] and I had a groin [injury]. I bounced back from those. I feel good about where I’m at now. I will acknowledge that because those are the facts. But as far as that being a negative about me … throughout my career I have not been injury prone. The last two years? Yeah, I’ve had some unfortunate injuries. That’s just the reality of this beast.”

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Eric Decker picks award show date with wife over Jets practice (Brian Costello) New York Post June 4, 2014

http://nypost.com/2014/06/04/eric-decker-picks-award-show-date-with-wife-over-jets-practice/

High-priced Jets wide receiver Eric Decker skipped the team’s OTA on Wednesday to attend the CMT Awards in Nashville.

Decker, who signed a five-year, $36.25 million contract with the Jets in March, was hanging out with Kenny Chesney instead of Geno Smith. Decker is married to country singer Jessie James, and the duo were scheduled to be part of the show.

Jets coach Rex Ryan, who likes to brag about his team’s offseason attendance, said he did not have an issue with Decker missing the session, which was voluntary.

“Well, speaking as a married guy, absolutely recommended that you would go to that,” Ryan joked.

“So that would be recommended, I think. You ask for their support. You need to support them, too. This really is voluntary camps, there’s no doubt about it. Things like this pop up. This is the time to do it. It’s not like it happened during the season. Certainly we support Eric and things. He’d be treated no different than any other teammate regardless of how much they’re making.”

It seems like an odd decision considering Decker is learning a new offense and the Jets are limited to 10 OTA practices. It was unclear whether Decker would return in time for Thursday’s practice.

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NEW YORK DAILY NEWS

NY Jets secondary has lots of new faces - and question marks - with Dee Milliner and Dimitri Patterson (Seth Walder) New York Daily news June 4, 2014

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http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/football/jets/secondary-primary-concern-jets-article-1.1817194

In just two short years, the Jets have gone from Darrelle Revis and Antonio Cromartie at cornerback to Dee Milliner and Dimitri Patterson. That dramatic shift has given the Jets a question mark at one of the two positions Rex Ryan often says can lose you a football game the fastest: quarterback and cornerback. Well, they have question marks at both positions.

Though it may be months before this team plays a meaningful game, the Jets would still like to avoid Milliner missing practice, which is exactly what happened at Wednesday's OTA. Milliner felt tightness in his left hamstring a couple days ago, he said, so he missed the practice.

The injury concerns exist for both Jets corners. Patterson, 30, only played six games last year for the Dolphins. Milliner missed spring practices a year ago while recovering from shoulder surgery and also missed three games during the season.

"We've got to get him, and he has to understand too, that he's got to be in extraordinary shape," Ryan said of Milliner. "His challenge would be: be in world-class shape. Because we've got to have you out there. He needs to be out there."

Ryan said he was glad that Milliner recognized that he needed to come out when he felt the pain, but said that it was when the young cornerback was able to get on the practice field last year that he was able to improve. Milliner had a rough rookie season but played better at the end of the year.

The rookie said he's making it a point of emphasis for himself to try and play all 16 games this year.

With the departure of Cromartie the team showed a lot of faith in Milliner. The Jets added Patterson and a third-round draft pick in Dexter McDougle but did not pay for any of the big-name cornerback free agents. Patterson, however, feels that he should be able to step right in and replace Cromartie. Cromartie had a poor season in 2013 but had had success with the Jets before that.

"They've already seen the schemes that I've played in. I've been asked to do what Cromartie was asked to do," Patterson said. "I don't have a high profile, no. I don't have the biggest name, no. But I've covered the same receivers, I've held up extremely well against the same receivers, the elite guys."

Patterson signed a one-year deal this offseason and believes the Jets know what they are getting in him.

"(With) a draft pick you would say there's hope, there's faith," he said. "When you sign a guy who's been in the league, it's called film."

As for his recent injury woes — he was placed on injured reserve last year for a groin injury after playing in only six games last year — Patterson said they are overrated.

"That's part of football, you're going to get hurt," he said. "But I look it at as glass half full: I haven't had a skill-diminishing injury, I haven't had a career-threatening injury."

Milliner and Patterson will try and turn around a pass defense that finished 22nd in the league last season. The secondary will also feature first-round safety Calvin Pryor, who had wisdom teeth pulled on Friday but was able to return to his first practice Wednesday.

"We have to go out and prove that we're better than we were last year," Patterson said. "We won't know until Oakland."

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NY Jets WR Eric Decker skips OTA session with Rex Ryan's OK to help wife Jessie James present at CMT award show (Seth Walder) New York Daily News

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June 4, 2014

http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/football/jets/jets-wr-eric-decker-skips-ota-session-present-cmt-award-show-article-1.1817077

The Jets invested more than $36 million in wide receiver Eric Decker, but instead of being on the field Wednesday with his teammates in Florham Park, he's in Music City with his country star wife.

Decker was absent from Wednesday’s OTA because he and his wife Jessie James are presenting an award at Wednesday's CMT Music Awards in Nashville, Tenn.

“Who's checking out the #CMTawards tomorrow night?! Tune in Wed at 8/7c to watch me and @TheJessicaJames present!” Decker tweeted Tuesday.

Rex Ryan defended Decker’s decision to skip the voluntary workout.

“Speaking as a married guy, absolutely recommended that you would go to that,” he said. “You ask for their support, you need to support them to. This is really voluntary camps, there’s no doubt about it. Things like this pop up. This is the time to do it; it’s not like it happened during the season. Certainly we support Eric and things. We treat it no different than any other teammate regardless of what they’re making.”

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NEW YORK TIMES

Jets’ Breno Giacomini Walks the Line on Offense (Ben Shpigel) New York Times June, 5, 2014

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/06/05/sports/football/jets-breno-giacomini-walks-the-line-on-offense.html?ref=football&_r=0

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — Sitting at his locker Wednesday afternoon, Breno Giacomini traced an imaginary line on the inside of his stall. He then placed his index finger on top of that line.

“This is how I play,” Giacomini said. “I don’t touch the other side, but I get as close to it without crossing as I can.”

Giacomini plays right tackle, a position that requires of its practitioners nimble feet, great strength and a passion, and aptitude, for holding their blocks. Just as necessary in Giacomini’s view is a mean streak. On the field he plays with the comportment of someone stranded in an airport for Thanksgiving.

In that sense, Giacomini, listed at 6 feet 7 inches and 318 pounds, fits into the Jets’ offensive line, whose resident right guard, Willie Colon, approaches his job the same way: rousing the official to reach for the penalty flag on every snap, but ultimately leave it in his pocket.

Giacomini sometimes struggled to find that balance when playing for Seattle, where he started last season for the Super Bowl champion Seahawks. In 2012, his first season as a full-time starter, he committed a team-high 12 penalties, including four for unnecessary roughness, two in the Week 4 game. His challenge, as he described it, is to play fair but not dirty.

“Sometimes, it goes too far,” Giacomini said. He added: “Every offensive lineman is physical. I try to take it to another level.”

Or, as Coach Rex Ryan said: “He’ll compete all the way to the whistle. You’ll see exactly what I’m talking about.”

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That side of Giacomini’s personality was coaxed out of him in college, at Louisville — first by a change in his position, to tight end, when he learned to finish his blocks, and then, as a senior on the offensive line, by his strength coach, Jason Veltkamp, who told him that N.F.L. scouts wanted their right-tackle prospects nasty and aggressive.

“I wasn’t the most athletic, and I wasn’t the best guy on the field,” Giacomini said, “so effort kind of had to take over.”

With the benefit of hindsight, it is obvious that football is a natural endeavor for Giacomini, 28, who in March parlayed his uncompromising nature and success creating running room for Marshawn Lynch into a four-year, $18 million deal with the Jets, replacing Austin Howard, who went to Oakland. But before he joined the Seahawks; and before he was drafted in 2008 by the Green Bay Packers, where he spent three seasons on the practice squad; and before he even attended Louisville, Giacomini envisioned a career in basketball.

At Malden High School outside Boston, Giacomini played quarterback as a freshman and sophomore before quitting football as a junior to concentrate on basketball. A power forward with outside range — the last shot of his scholastic career was a 3-pointer, he said, smiling — he intended to play the sport in prep school, and then in college.

That was until he rejoined the football team as a senior, when he was moved to outside linebacker/defensive end. With his size, a coach told him, Giacomini was certain to play Division I.

“I was like, ‘Are you crazy? In football?’ ” Giacomini said.

One of his coaches, Ray Bogus, knew the family of the Louisville coach at the time, Bobby Petrino, and he packaged a highlight tape. It included one football game, in which Giacomini registered four sacks, and three basketball games. Within a week or so, Giacomini had been offered a scholarship.

“I couldn’t go back home and tell my mother that I wanted to play basketball,” Giacomini said. “She would have killed me on the spot.”

There are no regrets now, naturally. Not after winning a Super Bowl and visiting the White House and signing a lucrative free-agent contract that reunites him with the Jets’ general manager, John Idzik, a former executive in Seattle.

No longer does Giacomini feel like “the new kid at school,” as he did at first. He is more comfortable with the playbooks, attends barbecues with his fellow offensive linemen and barks out which defensive players he will block. He does this before the snap, before he is allowed to cross the line.

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ESPN NEW YORK

Smith, Vick stick to their scripts (Jane McManus) ESPN New York June 4, 2014

http://espn.go.com/new-york/nfl/story/_/id/11032805/nfl-new-york-jets-quarterbacks-geno-smith-michael-vick-keeping-their-positions?ex_cid=espnapi_public

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- Jets quarterback Geno Smith took most of the reps in critical moments and worked with the first-team offensive line and defense, while Michael Vick worked with the twos, during Wednesday's OTAs. Yet afterward, Smith held to the company line that there is a quarterback competition for the starting spot.

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"I'm looking forward to working with Mike," Smith said. "When I was with Mark [Sanchez], we did a good job of doing the same thing; we competed hard. That's what we do around here. We're going to compete on a daily basis, all of us, Matt Simms, Tajh Boyd, every guy on this team is competing. It's a good sign for this team because it makes us get better day to day."

The Jets may just be choosing to define competition a bit differently. Coach Rex Ryan alluded to that last week, when he pointed to the unlikelihood that, say, Sheldon Richardson and Muhammad Wilkerson were in any real way fighting for their starting jobs -- it's more of a philosophy.

So Smith can say he's competing and Vick can say it's not an open competition, and they can both be right.

"We talk about the competition, but I think there's different forms of it," Ryan said. "We've been on this Mike Vick thing and Geno and all that type of stuff, and no one can figure it out. Well, we got it figured out."

Still, it may be a little awkward for Smith to have teammates looking up to the guy who is acting as the backup during practices. Veteran Jeremy Kerley, the longest-tenured receiver on the team, said as much Wednesday.

"I'm trying not to be star-struck," Kerley said. "[Vick] was my guy growing up. ... Just to catch passes from him is a special thing."

Smith didn't have a sterling rookie season, with 12 touchdown passes and 21 interceptions. But at 23, he's a full decade younger than Vick.

"I try to mentor all the quarterbacks," Vick said. "I'm still learning every day and I've been playing a lot longer than those guys and I probably won't be playing as long as they're going to play from here on out."

For one, Smith returns with more skills than he had upon arrival a year ago.

"Obviously I'm not out here head-spinning as much as I did last year," Smith said. "I'm still learning, I'm still studying it just as hard as I did last year. I've had time to figure out every single nuance of this offense and also figure out my teammates; get the timing down with the wideouts, get the rhythm with the offensive line and just kind of put my stamp on this team."

Smith said he's already benefited from having Vick as a teammate.

"Having Mike has made me better, being a second-year quarterback has made me better," Smith said. "But everything is all the result of hard work. That's my mantra."

Last week, Vick was made available to the media and reasserted that it wasn't an open competition, while a miscommunication between Smith and the Jets' public relations staff kept him from appearing. Smith was asked why he and Vick had seemed to hold contradictory opinions -- was it also a miscommunication?

"I don't think there's a miscommunication within this locker room," Smith said. "The communication is great -- we're all on the same page. I think it's all a matter of semantics. You put a word here or there and it changes the whole sentence."

Last week, Ryan seemed to imply that the Jets are using the idea of competition as a motivational tool, but in reality, some competitions are more intense than others.

"It's probably unrealistic to think you can have it at every position," he said. "But certainly we have competition and competition sometimes has to be maybe manufactured.

"You look at our defensive line, there's great competition there. It might not be for who's pushing this guy, but they push each other. They're all young. They came in together and they push each other, so I think that's a good thing as well."

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Decker skips OTA for CMT Music Awards (Kieran Darcy) ESPN New York June 4, 2014

http://espn.go.com/blog/new-york-jets/post/_/id/39560/decker-skips-ota-for-cmt-music-awards?ex_cid=espnapi_public

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- Eric Decker was not on the field with his New York Jets teammates Wednesday morning, but we'll all be able to see him later on this evening.

Decker skipped the Jets' latest OTA to be a presenter at the 2014 CMT Music Awards in Nashville, along with his wife, country singer Jessie James Decker.

The wide receiver tweeted the news himself Tuesday:

Jets coach Rex Ryan was asked about Decker's absence following practice Wednesday.

"Well, speaking as a married guy, [I] absolutely recommend it that you would go to that, OK," Ryan said, smirking. "So that would be recommended I think. You know, you ask for their support, you need to support them, too."

Decker signed a five-year, $36.25 million contract with the Jets back in March, with the expectation of becoming the team's No. 1 wide receiver. The OTAs are technically voluntary, but almost the entire team was present Wednesday.

"This is really voluntary camp, there’s no doubt about it," Ryan added. "Things like this pop up, this is the time to do it, it’s not like it happened during the season. But again, certainly we support Eric and things, and he’d be treated no different than any other teammate regardless of how much they’re making."

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Jets OTA Report: Milliner's hamstring issue (Kieran Darcy) ESPN New York June 4, 2014

http://espn.go.com/blog/new-york-jets/post/_/id/39566/practice-report-milliner-has-hammy-issue?ex_cid=espnapi_public

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- New York Jets cornerback Dee Milliner was held out of Wednesday's organized team activities with tightness in his left hamstring.

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"Just precautionary," Milliner said after practice. "I'll be fine."

The Jets are counting on Milliner, the ninth overall pick in 2013, to be one of their starting cornerbacks this season. He started 12 games as a rookie, but missed last year's OTAs and minicamp with a torn labrum, missed two preseason games with an Achilles injury, and missed three regular season games with a hamstring injury.

Jets coach Rex Ryan said Milliner has been "impressive" thus far in OTAs, prior to the hamstring issue, but needs to stay on the field.

"He has to understand too that he’s gotta be in extraordinary shape," Ryan said. "His challenge will be to be in world-class shape, 'cause we gotta have you out there. He needs to be out there and he needs to get work, 'cause that’s how he’s gonna get better.

"And you saw it as the year went on last year, he got better because of the work on the practice field and in the classroom. He was taking off from there, and you don’t want to see this happen. He’s gotta step it up, because I think he’s got all the talent in the world."

Sloppy! The Jets practiced for two hours on Wednesday, with owner Woody Johnson and general manager John Idzik joining Ryan on the sideline -- and it wasn't pretty.

Neither Geno Smith nor Michael Vick looked particularly sharp at quarterback, rookie tight end Jace Amaro had multiple dropped passes, and there were several yellow flags, resulting in push-ups for the entire team and staff.

"We had like six or seven penalties today, we were blowing coverages, blowing assignments," Ryan said. "It’s a good thing we’re not playing, 'cause it was kind of ugly out there today."

Amaro, the team's second-round draft pick, had 106 catches for an FBS-record 1,352 yards last year for Texas Tech. "But he’s really been looking good until today," Ryan said.

Step right up: First-round draft pick Calvin Pryor, who finalized his contract on Monday, played with the first unit Wednesday, along with fellow safety Antonio Allen.

Dawan Landry, who started all 16 games for the Jets last season, played with the backups.

"We expect this young man’s gonna contribute in a big way for us, there’s no doubt," Ryan said, of Pryor. "I know [Landry] knows what to do. I gotta get these other two to work together and communicate together.

"That’s why you throw [Pryor] out there. You leave him out there with the ones, and let’s see what happens. Make him communicate with the other guys that are working, and we’ll see how it goes."

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New Jets CB Patterson talking big game (Kieran Darcy) ESPN New York June 4, 2014

http://espn.go.com/blog/new-york-jets/post/_/id/39581/new-jets-cb-patterson-talking-a-big-game?ex_cid=espnapi_public

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- The signing of cornerback Dimitri Patterson back in April didn't exactly set the New York Jets' fan base on fire.

Brought in to compete for the starting job vacated by Antonio Cromartie, Patterson has started just 20 games in nine NFL seasons and played for six different teams prior to the Jets.

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But the soon-to-be 31-year-old is certainly not lacking in confidence.

"I've been asked to do what Cromartie was asked to do," Patterson said Wednesday. "Do I have a high profile? No. Do I have the biggest name? No. But I've covered the same receivers, and I've held up extremely well against the same receivers, the elite guys.

"I don't have a high-profile name, but I'll put my film [up] with anybody's. That's the reality of the situation."

Jets coach Rex Ryan had Patterson working with the first unit during Wednesday's OTAs. Fellow corner Dee Milliner, who started 12 games as a rookie last year, sat out the practice with a tight left hamstring. Darrin Walls was also absent, because of a personal issue. Ras-I Dowling, who was on the practice squad last season, played opposite Patterson.

Ryan praised Patterson afterward, with the caveat that these OTAs are non-contact practices.

"It's kind of tough -- with the way the rules are, you're not allowed to press, so it's a challenge," Ryan said. "But he's done well. I think he's on top of his assignments. He's been pretty impressive."

An undrafted free agent out of Division II Tuskegee, Patterson began his NFL career with the Washington Redskins, for whom he played three games in 2005.

He didn't get his first start until 2009, with the Philadelphia Eagles, but ended up starting a career-high nine games that season and had four interceptions.

Patterson spent the past two years with the division rival Miami Dolphins but played in only eight games combined, due to ankle and groin injuries. Still, he had four interceptions last season in just six games (four starts).

"The reality is, that's the only thing they can find negative to say about me," Patterson said, speaking of his recent injuries. "When you look at my career, I've been in [the league] nine years -- the last two years I had an ankle and I had a groin. My first six, seven years, I had no injuries."

Perhaps Patterson, now healthy again, is just coming into his prime? He likes playing under Ryan, in Ryan's system, thus far.

"The requirements and what's asked of a corner here is kind of similar to what was asked of me in Miami," Patterson said. "You gotta win on the perimeter, simple as that. It's been a good adjustment. I feel like it's a good situation for me, the scheme fits me, and I'm excited about it."

The Jets' secondary will look different this year, with first-round pick Calvin Pryor possibly starting at safety, and Patterson likely replacing Cromartie at cornerback. Not exactly household names -- at least, not yet.

"Do I think we have guys to go out here and be extremely competitive? No doubt about it," Patterson said. "But we don't truly know that until you get under the lights."

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Notes: Jets welcome Portugal (Jane McManus) ESPN New York June 4, 2014

http://espn.go.com/blog/new-york-jets/post/_/id/39593/notes-jets-welcome-portugal?ex_cid=espnapi_public

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New York Jets kicker Nick Folk came in Wednesday from the practice field kicking a soccer ball through the hall, past the showers and onto the green carpet of the locker room.

The Jets have a "Welcome Portugal" sign on the side of the field because, for this week, the World-Cup-bound soccer team is using their practice facility in the afternoons after the team takes off.

When the two teams have an official introduction later, Folk is going to try to angle a jersey switch with soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo, who plays for Portugal.

"I think we have two guys that know, 'Hey, that's a soccer ball," Jets coach Rex Ryan said, referring to Folk and offensive tackle Breno Giacomini.

"I understand they've got a guy that's pretty decent," Ryan said. "If all you have is like one name out there you're pretty good I think. And then someone said he made $28 million on his contract alone. I'm like ‘What?' Golly. So Seth (Ryan) is now kicking a soccer ball and not the football."

Number notes: WR Clyde Gates took Santonio Holmes' No. 10 jersey. After practice, quarterback Michael Vick noted Gates is a receiver who has stood out to him. Also swapping shirts, CB Ellis Lankster picked up Antonio Cromartie's No. 31. Ellis said he did it in part as an homage to Cromartie and in part because the number three has always been his favorite number.

Bad news for Goodson? Jets running back Mike Goodson, who injured his knee last season, hasn't been at the Jets' organized team activities. Ryan said he hasn't spoken to Goodson and wasn't sure if the knee injury was reason for missing the practices.

"The thing I know, in this camp, it's voluntary," Ryan said. "He hasn't been here. He volunteered not to be here. And I'll volunteer to not answer the question."

Goodson, who was arrested on weapons and drugs charges, has a court date for June 12. Goodson was found unresponsive in a car that was parked in the left lane of I-80 last spring.

BBQ XXL: With so many new faces on the roster this season, the Jets have been having different team-building events off-site. Giacomini said the Jets' offensive line had a team barbeque which required two different grills to handle all the orders. "It was a lot of food," Giacomini said. "It was good."

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THE STAR LEDGER

Calvin Pryor debuts at Jets' OTAs, practices with first-team defense (Darryl Slater) The Star Ledger June 4, 2014

http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2014/06/calvin_pryor_debuts_at_jets_otas_practices_with_first-team_defense.html

FLORHAM PARK – Calvin Pryor, sans wisdom teeth, finally participated in Jets organized team activities Wednesday.

It was the fifth of 10 OTAs for the Jets. They practiced last week on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. This week, they practiced Monday and will do so again Thursday.

Pryor, a safety, missed the first four OTAs because he had to have his three remaining wisdom teeth removed. Pain and swelling in his jaw sidelined him last Tuesday and Wednesday, because he couldn’t put a helmet on. He had the teeth removed Friday. (He previously had one of his wisdom teeth removed during his college days at Louisville.)

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On Wednesday, at long last, the Jets’ first-round draft pick was on the practice field – and working with the first-team defense. Pryor participated in last month’s three-day rookie mini camp, but had yet to practice with the Jets’ veterans.

“The transition has been very smooth,” Pryor said. “I’m feeling pretty good. Some days are better than others. I’m trying to hang in there, man, and get the job done. I’m feeling back to normal. Just ready to make sure I catch up with the veterans. We’ve got to be on the same page.”

The Jets brought back starting safeties Dawan Landry and Antonio Allen from last season. The starters for Week 1 remain unclear – since it is still just early June, after all – but coach Rex Ryan wants to make a concerted effort to catch Pryor up. (The Jets certainly could play three safeties – Landry, Allen and Pryor – at times this year.)

Ryan acknowledged Pryor’s dental issues “slowed him down,” but added, “He’s been pretty impressive. For a guy that has missed some time, and then to throw him back in there, he was on top of it. He’s been impressive that way to me.”

Ryan said he practiced Pryor with the first-team defense Wednesday, often alongside Allen, because those two young guys (Allen is entering his third season in the NFL) need more work than Landry, a ninth-year pro.

“We expect this young man (Pryor) is going to contribute in a big way for us,” Ryan said. “There’s no doubt. I know (Landry) knows what to do. I’ve got to get these other two to work together and communicate together. That’s why you throw (Pryor) out there. You leave him out there with the ones and let’s see what happens. Make him communicate with the other guys that are working. We’ll see how it goes.

“I think it’s good that (Allen) is out there, too. We know he needs to step up and communicate better. So we’re putting him in that situation. Because who is the rookie going to lean on? He’s going to look over at his partner. And if Landry’s out there, you’ve got a tendency to just let him run everything.”

Ryan said Landry knows the Jets’ defense so well – he previously played under Ryan in Baltimore, when Ryan was a coordinator – that the Jets refer to him as Tom, like the legendary Cowboys coach.

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Mike Goodson still a no-show at Jets OTAs, as Rex Ryan says, 'We haven't seen him' (Darryl Slater) The Star Ledger June 4, 2014

FLORHAM PARK – Halfway through the Jets’ organized team activities, and running back Mike Goodson is still a no-show.

The Jets on Wednesday held their fifth of 10 OTA practices. It was the second session open to reporters. Afterward, coach Rex Ryan said Goodson had yet to report for OTAs, which are technically voluntary, though almost universally attended by NFL players.

Right guard Willie Colon and rookie wide receiver Shaq Evans have been absent for both of the Jets’ open OTA sessions. But they have excuses. Colon just underwent arthroscopic knee surgery, so he almost certainly can’t do on-field rehab yet. Evans is finishing classes at UCLA, which is on the quarters system.

Goodson is the only Jets player who has not shown up at all for OTAs. Last Wednesday, after the Jets’ second OTA workout, Ryan was asked if he had spoken to Goodson recently. Ryan, usually chatty, offered a one-word answer: “Nope.”

Goodson is next due to appear in a Morris County courtroom June 12, as part of a weapons possession case against him.

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He suffered a season-ending knee injury last year that was expected to sideline him for OTAs. But he hasn’t been working with the trainers on the sideline at OTA practices, along with other injured Jets.

Ryan was asked again Wednesday if he had spoken to Goodson lately.

“The thing I know, in this camp, it’s voluntary,” Ryan said. “He hasn’t been here. He volunteered not to be here. And I’ll volunteer to not answer the question.”

Did Ryan expect that Goodson would be absent from OTAs? In other words, did the coach have advance notice about this?

“It is voluntary workouts,” Ryan said. “Personal things come up for different players. It’s the way it’s set up. It’s voluntary. Do I like guys being here? Of course.”

Even if Goodson was present, how much would he even be able to do, because of his knee?

“Well, I’m not going to speculate because he’s not here, and I don’t know where he is (in his rehab),” Ryan said. “We haven’t seen him, so I can’t answer that question (about where he is in his rehab progress).”

It remains unclear why Goodson has not shown up to OTAs. But his absence might not bode well for his future with the team. In late April, leading into the draft, Jets general manager John Idzik was asked about Goodson.

Idzik said he did not approach free agency, and the signing of running back Chris Johnson, with the thought that Goodson would not be available to the Jets because of his legal situation.

“We assume Mike is a Jet,” Idzik said. “We’ve always made that assumption. He didn’t get much time with us last year, but we assume that Mike is on our roster.”

Goodson signed with the Jets in free agency last offseason. Then he was arrested on drug and weapons possession charges. That led to a four-game suspension to start last season. And then his season ended prematurely, because of his knee injury. Goodson, a 27-year-old who has played five seasons in the NFL, ended up participating in just two games last season for the Jets. He had seven carries and two catches.

He was considered a potential asset for the Jets’ West Coast offense, because of his ability to catch passes out of the backfield. But the Jets satisfied that need this offseason by adding Johnson, which could make Goodson expendable. The Jets also claimed right back Daryl Richardson off waivers from the Rams. In addition to Johnson and Richardson, they also have Bilal Powell, Chris Ivory and Alex Green in the backfield.

Goodson is under contract through 2015. He is due to count $1.279 million against the Jets’ salary cap this year, but would count just $558,000 in “dead” money if the Jets cut him. His dead money figure for 2015 is $279,412, compared to a cap hit of $1.779 million.

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Jets' Darrin Walls misses OTA session due to 'personal thing,' says Rex Ryan (Darryl Slater) The Star Ledger June 4, 2014

http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2014/06/jets_darrin_walls_misses_ota_session_due_to_personal_thing_says_rex_ryan.html

FLORHAM PARK – Mike Goodson and Eric Decker were the Jets’ two most notable absences Wednesday, when they held their fifth of 10 organized team activities practice, and the second session open to reporters.

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It is unclear why Goodson, a running back, hasn’t yet shown up at all for OTAs. Decker, a wide receiver, has shown up, but missed Wednesday’s session to present at a country music awards show with his wife, who is a country music singer.

Beyond Goodson and Decker, cornerback Darrin Walls was also conspicuously absent Wednesday. But Walls’ absence was not unexplained, said coach Rex Ryan.

“There’s a reason,” Ryan said. “It’s a personal thing.”

Ryan declined to elaborate. With Walls out and starting corner Dee Milliner sidelined Wednesday with hamstring tightness, Ras-I Dowling got first-team reps opposite Dimitri Patterson, who projects to start opposite Milliner.

Also absent Wednesday were right guard Willie Colon, who is recovering from recent arthroscopic knee surgery, and rookie wide receiver Shaq Evans, who is finishing classes at UCLA, which is on the quarters system.

The following players worked with trainers on the sideline: running back Daryl Richardson (turf toe), running back Chris Johnson (knee) and outside linebacker Antwan Barnes (knee). Rookie cornerback Dexter McDougle (shoulder) continued to wear a red (non-contact) jersey.

The absences of Richardson, Johnson and Barnes were expected, as was McDougle wearing red again. Johnson won’t participate at all in OTAs. Nor will Barnes, who suffered a season-ending knee injury last year. McDougle’s senior year at Maryland was cut short by a serious shoulder injury.

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Jets' Rex Ryan says Dexter McDougle's shoulder strength varies depending on how he tests it (Darryl Slater) The Star Ledger June 4, 2014

http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2014/06/jets_rex_ryan_says_dexter_mcdougles_shoulder_strength_varies_depending_on_how_he_tests_it.html

FLORHAM PARK – Last week, Jets rookie cornerback Dexter McDougle said he wasn’t sure when he would be cleared to remove the red (non-contact) jersey that has significantly limited his participation in organized team activities.

McDougle, whom the Jets drafted in the third round out of Maryland, suffered a serious, season-ending shoulder injury last year, in the Terrapins’ third game.

He had three interceptions last year before getting hurt. While he is looking forward to getting on the field for the Jets and showcasing his skills, he understands why they are taking it slow with him.

McDougle continued to wear a red jersey Wednesday, in the Jets’ fifth of 10 OTA sessions.

Coach Rex Ryan was asked afterward if McDougle would be out of red during OTAs, which conclude next Thursday and are followed by mandatory mini camp, from June 17-19. Ryan did not answer the question directly, but offered some insight into McDougle’s recovery, and why the Jets are being cautious.

“He’s itching to go,” Ryan said. “He’s got a lot of strength in his shoulder, doing certain things, but then there’s other exercises that it’s not as much, which you worry a little bit if he hits the ground. You don’t want him to have a setback or a dislocated shoulder. Those are things that you’ve just got to make sure he gets it completely strong. There’s some things he’s 100 percent at. And then there’s others where he’s not quite.”

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The Jets don’t need McDougle to challenge for playing time immediately, so there’s no need to rush him back from an injury, especially in early June. They have Dee Milliner and Dimitri Patterson slotted to start, with Darrin Walls and Ellis Lankster as backups. Kyle Wilson is primarily a slot corner, but can play outside if needed.

Though McDougle’s opportunities to play this season on defense likely will be limited to non-existent, Ryan has liked what he’s seen so far from the rehabbing rookie.

“I’ve been really impressed with him from a mental standpoint and the way he carries himself,” Ryan said. “The little things that he’s able to do, he’s been impressive.”

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After overcoming 'terrible mental mountain climb,' Jets' Dimitri Patterson gets his chance (Darryl Slater) The Star Ledger June 4, 2014

http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2014/06/after_overcoming_terrible_mental_mountain_climb_jets_dimitri_patterson_gets_his_chance.html

FLORHAM PARK – Every night, Dimitri Patterson returned home and wondered, “Is this really for me?”

Yet another day had passed, and the Washington Redskins’ coaches barely recognized Patterson, an undrafted rookie cornerback on their practice squad, even though he thought he played well enough to catch their eye. Maybe he would have to return to college, finish his business degree and leave football behind.

“I go out here every day, I show I have it, but no one’s acknowledging me,” he recalled thinking.

This type of situation, “where people treat you like you don’t exist,” can mark the end of an NFL career for many undrafted rookies. Patterson refers to it as “that terrible, terrible mental mountain climb.”

But his inner monologue also repeated another phrase in those difficult days of 2005. He said it to himself every day when he entered the Redskins’ facility: “I’ve got what it takes.”

“You’ve got to say that every day,” Patterson said. “I don’t know how many times I said that to myself. Millions of times. That’s why I’m here right now.”

On Wednesday, two weeks before his 31st birthday, Patterson’s here and now was on the Jets’ practice field during organized team activities, lining up with the first-team defense.

The Jets, having failed to land an elite free agent corner to replace Antonio Cromartie, signed Patterson to a one-year, $3 million contract in the offseason. He is projected to start opposite Dee Milliner, as the Jets try to improve a pass defense that ranked 22nd in the NFL last year.

Ten years into his unlikely career, after stops with six teams, Patterson entered OTAs as a starter for the first time. He has long since proven he can at least play in the NFL – something even he wondered about after his college days at Division I-AA Southeast Missouri State and Division II Tuskegee. In 78 career NFL games, with 20 starts, he has nine interceptions, including four in six games with the Dolphins last year.

But here and now, finally, is his chance to demonstrate he can thrive as a starter.

“I’m so excited about this year for that reason alone,” he said. “This is the year where I get to show people: Hey, look, when I’m given the opportunity, I can show that I can go out here and handle the elite receivers week in and week out, and be extremely productive. I’m at peace now (with my career), but this would be icing on the cake.”

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While Patterson called this opportunity to start “a surreal feeling,” after fighting for playing time his entire career, he is not bashful about embracing it.

“I don’t have a high-profile name,” he said. “But I’ll put my film to anybody’s.”

Patterson didn’t start until his sixth season, when he started nine games for the Eagles. He started five in Cleveland from 2011-12 and six with the Dolphins from 2012-13. An ankle injury limited him to nine games played in 2012 and a groin injury limited him to six games last year, with four starts. He said he feels good physically, but understands he must prove he can remain consistently healthy at this stage of his career.

“If I didn’t experience an injury last year, I probably would’ve had the best year of my career,” said Patterson, whom the Dolphins cut in the offseason.

Man-to-man coverage has always been Patterson’s strength, which makes him a good fit for Jets coach Rex Ryan’s defense, because he requires significant man-to-man duties by his corners. The Dolphins also asked their corners to play man coverage often, but in a slightly different manner than Ryan’s defense.

Patterson said Ryan requires more pre-snap “formation recognition” by his corners. Miami’s approach, Patterson said, was essentially: “That’s your man. Wherever he goes, you go.” But with the Jets, the defense’s coverage usually depends on what formation the offense shows. The corners must read the offense and tweak the coverage accordingly.

Patterson will happily adjust to that change, since the Jets’ defense will let him still play lots of man coverage.

“That’s kind of how I’ve found my niche in this league,” he said. “Most guys at my age, they don’t want this. But this comes so natural to me, and I’m so comfortable in this, I like it.”

Ryan said he has not been able to get an accurate read on Patterson’s man coverage skills yet, because NFL rules prohibit corners from playing press coverage during OTAs. But Ryan said Patterson has been “on top of his assignments” and “pretty impressive.”

Patterson long ago overcame his mental mountain climb. He believes in himself more than ever. Now he gets to show why.

“I always knew I had the skill set,” he said. “What kept me motivated and encouraged is the fact that I looked around, and I saw who was getting opportunities, and I knew that I was just as talented, and I had the wherewithal mentally and physically to start in this league. It was just a matter of who was going to give me the opportunity.”

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Rookie Jace Amaro frustrated by struggles to learn Jets' offense (Darryl Slater) The Star Ledger June 4, 2014

http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2014/06/rookie_jace_amaro_frustrated_by_struggles_to_learn_jets_offense.html

FLORHAM PARK – Jace Amaro never expected this to be easy.

On the night last month when the Jets drafted him in the second round, the former Texas Tech tight end acknowledged he would have a “big learning curve” going from the Red Raiders’ up-tempo, spread offense and its simple play calls to Marty Mornhinweg’s West Coast offense, a pro-style system with more complex terminology.

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A week later, on Day 1 of the Jets’ three-day rookie mini camp, his brain was overloaded with the play call information he heard in the huddle.

On Wednesday, the Jets hit the halfway mark of their 10 organized team activities. Amaro struggled, as he dropped three passes, based on coach Rex Ryan’s count.

After Wednesday’s practice, Amaro expressed frustration about his performance so far in OTAs. It is early, of course. And Amaro still maintains hope that he can be a productive for the Jets in his rookie season. But the process of learning the Jets’ offense has been just as challenging as he figured.

“It’s a real big learning process for me, especially because I’m so used to plays being so very simple,” he said. “I think I’m just over-thinking right now, and I’m not playing my best. But I think it’s all a process. I’ve got to be ready for training camp, and that’s really the big thing for me. I know I’m going to make mistakes out there. I know I’m not going to do my best right now because I’m still learning. I’m just really concentrating on being fully prepared for training camp and really showcasing what I can do.”

So what is his biggest problem right now?

“I think just over-thinking all the plays,” he said. “They call the plays so quickly, and then lining up and thinking about what I need to do. Before the snap, you only have a couple seconds to do that. I think once I get everything down and once it starts clicking, it’s going to be a lot more simple for me, and I can just know (that) I’ve just got to get open on this play, or I’ve got this guy (in blocking). Right now, I’m just having a little trouble in that area, just getting lined up in the correct spot and making sure I know what to do, especially. That kind of draws off a little bit of your game if you’re just thinking a little bit too much.”

Amaro has been making a concerted effort to study his playbook every night, but he said he is struggling with transitioning his on-paper assignments to the field.

“It’s different because you can memorize it, and it’s like going into a final exam and you just kind of blank out when you’re out there, because they call it so quickly and plays are all random,” he said. “It’s just one of those things (where) it’s going to be (learning) just by reps. I feel real comfortable when we’re going out there and just throwing with the quarterbacks. But when it comes to team (periods), it kind of takes me half a second to really process everything.

“I’ve got to know what the defense is. I’ve got to know what they’re all doing. I’ve got to see where the safeties are at. And then I have to make sure that I line up right, and then know what I’m doing on the play. I think that’s probably the biggest thing for me right now, is I just want to be comfortable out there. Once I do that, I think I’m going to feel really good about this offense.”

Rookie struggles are common, of course. And a guy who was a rookie last season, quarterback Geno Smith, was not nearly as hard on Amaro as Amaro was on himself. For what it’s worth, some of what Smith said about Amaro sounded like the exact opposite of what Amaro was saying about himself, which seems like a case of the probable starting quarterback not publicly criticizing a potentially valuable rookie.

“He’s very smooth in and out of his routes,” Smith said. “He’s got a great feel for the passing game, coming from Texas Tech. He’s run a ton of routes from that tight end spot. The biggest thing for me is that he’s picked up the offense really well. A lot of times, rookies tend to have mental mistakes. I haven’t seen one yet from him. He’s got a lot to improve on, but he’s picking up the offense.”

Every day during OTAs, the Jets have installed a different part of their offense. At Texas Tech, a lot of the Red Raiders’ routes were very similar to one another, Amaro said, adding that coach Kliff Kingsbury’s offense was “very easy to learn.” With the Jets, Amaro has to teach himself an entirely new football vocabulary.

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“Right now, there are different calls, but you run the same route, so it’s kind of weird sometimes,” Amaro said. “It just kind of throws me off a little bit. Their terminology is a little bit different than what I’ve learned from coach Kingsbury’s offense. Like, a cross over there at Texas Tech was an over route. When they say ‘cross’ here, they’re talking about a dig. It’s just different terminology. I’ve just got to kind of forget about what I did at Texas Tech and just know what I’m doing here.”

Amaro certainly looks the part of an NFL tight end. He is 6-5 and 265 pounds. He certainly has the college stats to indicate he can be a successful pro. Last season, he set a Football Bowl Subdivision record for receiving yards by a tight end. He had 106 catches for 1,352 yards and seven touchdowns.

But even the physical part of succeeding in OTAs has been tough for Amaro so far, because of the nature of these no-pads workouts.

When asked if he at least feels, right now, that he can physically contend at this level, Amaro said, “I can’t really say that until the pads are on. I think with me and the way I play my game, I like to get into people. I think it’s a little bit tougher for defenders to grab on when you have shoulder pads (on), rather than just having a jersey. I’m not the quickest guy out there, so it’s probably a little bit easier for the quicker guys to get open right now (during OTAs). But the biggest part of my game is I really like to use my body on routes. So I think it’s going to help me out a lot once I really concentrate on knowing the playbook and being able to play full speed.”

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NJ.COM

Eric Decker skips Jets OTAs for country music awards show. So what? (Dom Cosentino) NJ.com June 4, 2014

http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2014/06/eric_decker_skips_jets_otas_for_country_music_awards_show_so_what.html

FLORHAM PARK -- It's June 4. NFL organized team activities are voluntary workouts. Receiver Eric Decker wasn't there on Wednesday for the Jets' fifth session of OTAs. He tweeted his explanation, which you can see above.

Decker's wife is country music star Jessie James. The CMT music awards are Wednesday night in Nashville, and they'll be broadcast live on something called CMT. It looks like Decker and James will be presenting something together.

There is absolutely no reason for any of this a concern, or a controversy, or anything more than a thing that happened on Wednesday at Jets OTAs. That Decker is new to the team after having signed a contract that maxes out to five years and $36 million is completely irrelevant.

Head coach Rex Ryan just wanted to make that clear.

"Well, speaking as a married guy," Ryan said, "absolutely recommended that you would go to that, OK? You ask for their support, you need to support them, too."

This is a familiar topic for Ryan, who went to see his son, Seth, play his first college football game last year at Clemson on the same weekend the Jets had to make their final preseason roster cuts. Ryan took heat for doing that, for some dumb reason, but he has since said he'd do it again if given the chance.

So, no, Decker doing something relevant to his wife's career on the same day as a voluntary workout three months before the start of the season is not something that bothers Ryan.

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"This is really voluntary camps, there's no doubt about it," Ryan said. "Things like this pop up. It's the time of year to do it; it's not like it happened during the season. Certainly, we support Eric and things, and he's being treated no different than any other teammate, regardless of how much they're making."

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Jets OTAs: Cornerback Dee Milliner sits out practice with hamstring tightness (Dom Cosentino) NJ.com June 4, 2014

http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2014/06/jets_otas_cornerback_dee_milliner_sits_out_practice_with_hamstring_tightness.html

FLORHAM PARK -- Dee Milliner did not partake in practice on Wednesday, the fifth session of the Jets' organized team activities.

No, Milliner was not at a country music awards show. That was receiver Eric Decker's reason for an (excused) absence.

Milliner, a second-year cornerback and likely starter, was at One Jets Drive and in uniform, but he wasn't wearing a helmet and sat out because of tightness in his left hamstring, which he said he began experiencing earlier in the week.

Wednesday's workout was the first one Milliner has missed this offseason. He said he took part in Monday's OTAs, which were closed to the media.

Milliner characterized the reason he didn't practice Wednesday as "precautionary." He's not sure whether he'll be ready to go for the team's next OTA session on Thursday.

"I feel fine—whenever they tell me to go back," Milliner said of the Jets' team trainers.

Milliner had battled hamstring issues as a rookie last year. Time and again on Wednesday, he stressed that this injury was not that serious.

"It bothers me because I want to be out there on the field with my teammates getting better during OTAs," Milliner said. "In another way, it's fine because I know I ain't injured or hurt that bad."

Head coach Rex Ryan was a bit more concerned.

“He has to understand too that he’s got to be in extraordinary shape,” Ryan said. “His challenge will be: Be in world-class shape because we have to have you out there. He needs to be out there and he needs to get work, because that’s how he’s going to get better.”

"You don't want to see this happen, but he's got to step it up. Because I think he's got all the talent in the world."

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Geno Smith: Any confusion over Jets QB situation 'a matter of semantics' (Dom Cosentino) NJ.com June 4, 2014

http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2014/06/geno_smith_any_confusion_over_jets_qb_situation_a_matter_of_semantics.html

FLORHAM PARK -- One more time, so we're all clear: The Jets have a quarterback competition. It's just not an "open" competition.

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Geno Smith, the incumbent, has the advantage over Michael Vick, the challenger. The job is Smith's to lose. But if Vick really outplays Smith this summer, the job is Vick's.

Got it?

"I don't think there was a miscommunication within this locker room—communication is great," Smith said after an organized team activity practice Wednesday.

To review: Head coach Rex Ryan keeps calling it a competition. Vick later repeated his assertion that it's not an "open" competition. Offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg has since said it's not a 50/50 competition, and rookie quarterback Tajh Boyd eventually put it in the clearest terms possible: "Right now, it's his team." Boyd was referring to Smith.

Smith said those directly involved all understand what's going on. And that's all that matters.

"We're all on the same page," Smith said. "I think it's all a matter of semantics. You put [in] a word here and there, it changes the whole sequence. We understand what's going on. ... I don't really know what the miscommunication is because from my vantage point, everyone's on the same page."

Smith and Vick split the reps during Wednesday OTAs, with both taking 14 snaps in full-team scrimmages. Smith went 8-for-10 with a scramble, while Vick went 3-for-8 with a sack, a scramble, and a pass dropped.

OTAs are voluntary, and players wear helmets and shorts, but no pads. There is no contact.

Smith was asked if being "on the same page" means he's the starter. He didn't take the bait.

"That we're going to compete every single day," he said, "and that we're going to get better."

Very well. Now can we just let this thing play out this summer?

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Antwan Barnes may not be healthy in time for Jets training camp, Rex Ryan says (Dom Cosentino) NJ.com June 4, 2014

http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2014/06/antwan_barnes_may_not_be_healthy_in_time_for_jets_training_camp_rex_ryan_says.html

FLORHAM PARK -- The Jets played their last 11 games of 2013 without reserve outside linebacker Antwan Barnes, who injured a knee in October and was promptly placed season-ending injured reserve.

Barnes was seen in the rehab area riding a stationary bike during Wednesday's organized team activities. Head coach Rex Ryan isn't sure how much longer Barnes will need to recover.

"It's slow, but he's getting better," Ryan said. "Where his situation is, I don't expect him to be out here. Will he be ready for training camp [in late July]? I'm not sure. But I don't expect him to be at the rest of the OTAs and the mandatory [minicamp]. He's not ready to do that."

The 6-foot-1, 251-pound Barnes is 29 years old and entering his eighth season. He played for the Ravens, Eagles, and Chargers before signing a three-year deal with the Jets in March 2013.

Barnes had two sacks in five games last season. He played mostly in passing situations.

"Certainly he gives us that punch and that suddenness off the edge," Ryan said. "Certainly we hope that he's able to get back to it."

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WEDNESDAY’S SPORTS TRANSACTIONS

BASEBALL

American League

CLEVELAND INDIANS — Sent RHP Zach McAllister to Lake County (MWL) for a rehab assignment.

DETROIT TIGERS — Designated INF Danny Worth for assignment. Recalled SS Eugenio Suarez from Toledo (IL).

HOUSTON ASTROS — Optioned 1B Marc Krauss to Oklahoma City (PCL). Recalled 1B Jon Singleton from Oklahoma City.

NEW YORK YANKEES — Optioned RHP Preston Claiborne to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (IL). Recalled RHP Jose Ramirez from Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Designated RHP Alfredo Aceves for assignment.

TEXAS RANGERS — Placed RHP Alexi Ogando on the 15-day DL. Recalled LHP Aaron Poreda from Round Rock (PCL).

National League

MIAMI MARLINS — Optioned 2B Derek Dietrich to New Orleans (PCL). Selected the contract of INF Justin Bour from New Orleans.

MILWAUKEE BREWERS — Optioned UT Elian Herrera to Nashville (PCL). Reinstated 3B Aramis Ramirez from the 15-day DL.

PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES — Assigned LHP Jeremy Horst outright to Lehigh Valley (IL). Agreed to terms with 1B Rusty Ryal on a minor league contract.

American Association

AMARILLO SOX — Signed OF Manny Osborne.

GARY SOUTHSHORE RAILCATS — Released INF Miles Walding. Signed LHP James Giulietti.

GRAND PRAIRIE AIRHOGS — Signed LHP Luis Nunez.

Can-Am League

QUEBEC CAPITALES — Released RHP Cameron Bayne.

Frontier League

LAKE ERIE CRUSHERS — Signed LHP Brett Zambron.

WINDY CITY THUNDERBOLTS — Signed RHP Eli Anderson.

FOOTBALL

National Football League

NFL — Suspended N.Y. Giants CB Jayron Hosley four games for violating the NFL Policy and Program for Substances of Abuse.

ARIZONA CARDINALS — Signed RB Damien Thigpen. Released WR Kevin Smith.

CAROLINA PANTHERS — Signed WR Kelvin Benjamin and G Trai Turner.

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS — Signed CB Johnny Adams and C FN Lutz.

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NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS — Signed LB James Anderson. Released WR Mark Harrison.

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES — Promoted Dom DiSandro to vice president of team security, Rick Mueller to director of pro personnel, Mike Bradway to assistant director of college scouting, Jake Rosenberg to director of football administration, Brad Obee to southwest regional scout and Ryan Myers northeast regional scout and Matt Lindsey to college scouting coordinator. Named Joe Hastings pro personnel assistant.

PITTSBURGH STEELERS — Signed WR C.J. Goodwin. Released WR Jasper Collins.

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS — Signed QB Colin Kaepernick to a six-year contract extension.

TENNESSEE TITANS — Agreed to terms with CB Marc Anthony. Placed WR Josh Stewart on the waived/injured list.

Canadian Football League

SASKATCHEWAN ROUGHRIDERS — Announced the retirement of SB Geroy Simon.<mj

HOCKEY

National Hockey League

DETROIT RED WINGS — Agreed to terms with Grand Rapids (AHL) coach Jeff Blashill on a three-year contract.

PHILADELPHIA FLYERS — Entered into an affiliation agreement with Reading (ECHL).

COLLEGE

NCAA — Appointed BYU director of athletics Tom Holmoe to the men's Division I basketball committee.

BIG EAST CONFERENCE — Named Tania Kennedy director of championships.

ALBANY (N.Y.) — Named Keyana Williams director of women's basketball operations.

NORTHLAND — Named Seamus Gregory men's ice hockey coach.

SYRACUSE — Named Matt Verni men's assistant soccer coach.

UCONN — Announced RB Lyle McCombs is no longer on the football team.

VANDERBILT — Announced QB Stephen Rivers is transferring from LSU.