Mission To Civilize New York Jets Coverage
Joe Belic previews the Jets’ offensive tackles.
After quarterback, left tackle—if your single-caller is right-handed—is arguably the most important position on the field. Properly protecting the QB’s blind-side remains crucial to winning games and keeping him healthy and on his feet. (more…)
Joe Belic breaks down Tristen Hoge.
The selection of Alijah Vera-Tucker in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft filled a big hole up front, and the offensive line appears better equipped for the season ahead. However, right guard is still up for grabs, and a training camp face-off for the unclaimed spot will continue to be a big story.
Joe Belic offers his final RD 1 mock draft of 2021.
I thought I’d have some fun and join the draft day party with a first-round predictive mock.
Joe Belic offers his final mock draft before the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft.
Mock drafts have emerged as the lifeblood of the draft season craze. Various scenarios can, in a heartbeat, not only make one feel uplifted but also discouraged. With that said, I hope this particular piece evokes the former and leaves you with an optimistic view of what’s to come. Happy draft day, everybody!
After losing out on Joe Thuney and apparently—for whatever reason—not being interested in Corey Linsley, Joe Douglas added some competition to the OL room this free agency season with the acquisition of Dan Feeney on a one-year deal worth up to $4.25 million. Feeney, a former third-round pick from Indiana University, has experience at both guard and center, fitting Douglas’ versatility profile.
Continue reading “Dan Feeney: Is he a fit and what should Jets fans expect?”
Joe Belic reviews the New York Jets offensive line in week 1
I was forced to spend my Sunday afternoon hanging out with my friend Johnnie, Johnnie Walker, to be exact. The emotional distress of the season-opening loss subsided with my old buddy’s help, and I got my psyche prepared for yet another New York Jets repressed memory. Luckily for me, I am able to lock some of the painful games away; still, I empathize with my fellow Jets fans, who can’t.
Joe Belic with a deep dive preview of the New York Jets offensive line…
The offensive line hasn’t received much praise this preseason, which isn’t surprising, considering it’s comprised of five players who have never played a single snap together. Strong play up front is established through continuity and, given the current state of the world coupled with an unorthodox training camp, the situation is disconcerting. However, the unit isn’t lost, and there is a chance the line meshes and functions cohesively—hopefully, prior to Week 1. Still, growing pains are expected, and with an opening schedule featuring dominant defensive fronts, the cause for concern remains justified.
Should the fanbase be worried?
Can they pull it together?
As presently constructed, does the offensive line have what it takes to protect Sam Darnold?
Personally, I’m hopeful, but the jury is still out…
Joe Belic with optimistic, yet realistic predictions for the New York Jets 2020 season
2020 hasn’t exactly been what many of us envisioned as we counted down the seconds heading into a new year. The Jets have a bumpy runway ahead of them, and all the turbulence around the Jamal Adams situation hasn’t made things smoother. I understand the skepticism surrounding the season and, yes, the roster remains a work in progress. Still, the addition of some key pieces along the offensive line, one of the best slot receivers in the league, a potential future HOF in the backfield, and the return of a specific dynamic playmaker keeps me hopeful. Amidst the turmoil, below are some optimistic yet realistic predictions for the upcoming season.
Joe Belic with a deep dive on New York Jets 4th round pick, OL Cameron Clark
The Jets had some question marks in terms of run blocking going into the draft but addressed the issue with two absolute maulers: Mekhi Becton and Cameron Clark.
Clark, the 129th overall pick in the fourth round of the NFL draft, played left tackle all four seasons for the UNC Charlotte 49ers, but it’s widely believed he’s best suited to play guard at the next level.
One part brain and one part brawn, Clark is the perfect combination of smarts and down-right nastiness; his sheer will to dominate defenders is at the heart of his game. A natural-born leader, his stacked resume includes Dean’s list, offensive MVP, and team captain. Extremely durable to boot, Clark started 31 straight games during his collegiate career.
Joe Belic with a deep dive into New York Jets 4th round pick, La’Mical Perine featuring an interview with Matt Waldman of FootballGuys.Com
Running back La’Mical Perine proved Gators don’t sweat as he tweeted “Patience”—a virtue he possesses both on and off the field—while awaiting his turn to be chosen in the NFL Draft.
Many suspected Gang Green would address the position due to lack of depth and Le’Veon Bell’s questionable return for the 2021 season. With their first pick (No. 120) in the fourth round, the New York Jets selected the bruising runner out of Florida.
