August 28, 2025 • 26 mins
Host Eric Allen is joined in the Audi Performance Studio by reporter Susanna Weir for a detailed discussion about the makeup of the 2025 Jets heading into Week 1. The Green and White cut their roster down to 53 players on Tuesday leading into the final open weekend before the NFL season begins.
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Speaker 1 (00:00):
Last season, Susannah Weir covered the Broncos in Denver. This season,
the Staten Island native was added to a reporting team.
She's coming up next we meet anybody in the world,
and I think we're gonna win next Sunday and it's
this gets wonderful.
Speaker 2 (00:21):
Put your seat belts and getting ready for the ride.
Speaker 1 (00:28):
The Official Jets Podcast is presented by Kendra Scott, the
jewelry company that's shining bright and doing good. Personalize your
game day look by shopping spirited styles and so much
more at your local Kendra Scott store or kendrascott dot com,
where team spirit meets personal style. Susannah, Welcome to the podcast.
(00:49):
You happy to be here, So take us through the summer.
What has this experience been like reporting on a new team.
Speaker 2 (00:56):
Yeah, it's been great. I think I feel like I
was spoiled even at a really good time. New coaching staff,
new general manager. I feel like I've loved the energy.
I've loved the new mindset that I feel like this
team has. Obviously I haven't seen what it's been like
in the past, but everything that I've seen, the vibe
just seems to be great with these players, with this staff,
So I'm excited for the season to get started.
Speaker 1 (01:17):
All right, So folks are going to be reading you
on New York Just dot Com throughout the year. But actually,
last season twenty twenty four twenty five, you were with
the Broncos. That's one of Aaron Glenn's mentors in Sean Payton.
Tell us about that experience.
Speaker 2 (01:34):
Yeah, it was great. I honestly feel like I see
a lot of similarities already, just between the things that
they preach. I think Aaron Glenn has talked a lot
about emotional maturity and how important that's going to be
for his team. I feel like that's definitely something I
saw with Sean Payton. And also, you know, with this roster,
it's a young team. I feel like that was something
I saw last year in Denver two and I kind
(01:54):
of liked the young and hungry type of team, and
I feel like something similar could be happening here.
Speaker 1 (02:00):
When did you know the Broncos were on something last year?
Speaker 2 (02:03):
Honestly, it was interesting because I felt it during training camp,
and I think that was my first NFL season, and
so a lot of people in the building were saying,
you know, there's always this excitement during the preseason. There's
always this excitement in training camp. You never know how
it's actually going to pan out. But from being around
the guys last year in the locker room during preseason,
(02:23):
I feel like there was just an energy there like
they had this internal belief. There were a lot of
people on the outside that were maybe doubting it, but
from the moment I got there, I felt like there
was an internal belief that the guys had in the
locker room.
Speaker 1 (02:36):
So you are a New York native, I am in
Staten Island, right, Yes, we won't say what team your
family I was always rooted for might have been, the
crossdown neighbors in yours might have been. But with that
being said, do you find it different in terms of
daily coverage coming out from Denver and then now being
(02:58):
here in New York?
Speaker 2 (02:59):
Yeah, I mean being from New York obviously very proud
to be from New York. I feel like there's just
a different energy in this city, and especially with this team,
Crosstown team, there's just this hunger to win. I feel
like these fans have wanted that for a while, and
so it's exciting to be here. It's a cool environment
and obviously you know, returning home is a special opportunities.
Speaker 1 (03:21):
What about your interactions with the players.
Speaker 2 (03:23):
So far, It's been great. I feel like, you know,
like I said, a lot of young guys that are
just eager excited to be here. I feel like I've
felt the energy from the moment I got here, and
you know, just excited to see what some of these
players do when they get out there in a couple weeks.
Speaker 1 (03:38):
Speaking of energy, when people ask you on the outside,
what's ag what is Aaron Glenn like? Because you're absorbing
that energy on a daily basis, whether it's outside here
during training camp or downstairs in the media room.
Speaker 2 (03:54):
I feel like he tells it like it is. He
is like to the point, he's going to tell you
exactly what he thinks, how he feels. And I love that.
I feel like that's what you need out of a
head coach. I feel like you need somebody who's gonna
give it to you straight. And I feel like every
player that we've talked to is you know, said the
same thing that they never have to guess what he's thinking.
He's going to tell him, tell to him straight. And
we even saw that in the preseason games when he
(04:15):
would pull guys over on the sideline immediately when they're
coming off the field. So I love it. I think
that's what you need from a head coach.
Speaker 1 (04:21):
All right, major takeaways from the roster cut down here
Tuesday that happened at four pm. The Jets also had
a few waiver claims three players that acquired via waivers.
Rosters never entirely don Darren Mouji his personal staff going
to be continuing to look at all avenues in order
(04:41):
to improve it. But any surprises for you.
Speaker 2 (04:45):
I wouldn't. I would say the only surprise is I
you know, you always are rooting for maybe an undrafted
guy to make the jump there, and we didn't see
any of that. I'm curious to hear about past seasons.
I know that you guys have typically had at least
one drafted rookie make the team, and I was a
bit surprised to not see at least one. But in
(05:05):
terms of just breaking it down position by a position,
there was nothing that really struck me as crazy, crazy surprising.
But I do think it's interesting how young the team is.
We've talked about it. I mean, thirty one players have
four or fewer years of experience in the NFL. I
think that's you know, but then you talk about the
guys who are the veteran players, and there's four guys
(05:26):
over that are thirty plus years old, and two of
them have extensive experience with the Jets. And then you
have you know, Josh Reynolds, who has experienced with a
lot of teams, also has experienced with Aaron Glenn and
with Tanner. So it's just an interesting group of those
veteran guys. I think pairing that with the young team
will be interesting to see.
Speaker 1 (05:46):
Well, I'm glad you mentioned a number of these udfa's
because in fact, the Jets late Wednesday afternoon early Thursday morning,
they're going to release a few of these names. As
far as Quentin Skinner being back, Brandon Smith as well.
Brandon Smith experience here with the Jets, he played during
(06:07):
the preseason last year, actually was acquired last August, and
then Quentin Prichard as well, so not Quentin Pritchard, Quentin Skinner,
excuse me, Jamal Pritchard back. So a few of those
udfas that I know fans were very much interested in
clearing waivers and coming back here, so they will be
part of this program.
Speaker 2 (06:29):
Yeah, no, and I think that's great. I feel like
with the practice squad you kind of have these like
roster mechanics that go on with like managing. Obviously, people
on the practice squad can be elevated up to the
active roster, so I think obviously there's a lot of
thought that goes into the practice squad as well, and
so having those guys back I think is super valuable.
Speaker 1 (06:46):
Exavier Gibson on the roster. He was asked directly about
that today Aaron Glenn, and he said, this guy's dynamic
with the ball in his hands, and we have to
weigh special team failue big time in some of these
roster decisions. And when you look at a guy like Gibson,
not only does he provide an offensive skill set that
(07:08):
you like, but he is a sure handed return man
who's made some big plays in the league from that spot.
And for the Jets to win this year, they got
to have sound special teams.
Speaker 2 (07:20):
Yeah. I think special teams is really important. It doesn't
surprise me that that's something that they're focusing on because
it can essentially make or break a game. I think
somebody like Kenay as well, having him on the roster,
the expertise he brings with special teams, and then even
just one of the claims today we see is a
big special teams contributor. So I think it's an important thing.
(07:41):
Some teams may not value it as much as others,
but I think it's a good thing to focus on
here all.
Speaker 1 (07:46):
Right, justin Fields, completely different quarterback than the guy you
saw last year in Boone Knicks bon Nicks, of course,
top fifteen pick overall, was in a quarterback competition. They're
in den and they got better throughout the year. Justin Fields.
He signs in free agency here in March, the Jets
(08:07):
safe from the get you are our quarterback one? What
have you seen from him? And also what have you
heard from Fields?
Speaker 2 (08:16):
Yeah, he seems like a very level headed guy, right,
And he even said that that's been just the past
six months that he feels like he's really gotten to
that point where he's not letting outside noise influence him.
But I think, you know, from what I've seen and
heard from the coaching staff, this feels like it's going
to be a system that is catered to his skill set.
You know, he was hesitant to speak on his previous
(08:38):
systems that he's been in. But from what I've seen
so far, I feel like this feels like a good
fit for him. And obviously it's his third NFL team.
Now he's really, you know, looking to take the next
step in his career, and this feels like a good
place to do it.
Speaker 1 (08:52):
Third team of three seasons, fourth offensive coordinator in five years.
So do you imagine this is going to be a
bit of a growing process for everybody, not just Fields
Tanner Angstran who is ready for this opportunity to be
calling place in the NFL. It's got great mentors and
guys like Jim Harbaugh and Ben Johnson of course there
(09:14):
with the Lions, but you know, these guys are all
working together for the first time.
Speaker 2 (09:19):
Yeah, I mean, I feel like it's a growing process
every year, right, Like I feel like out the gate
week one, a lot of fans will like panic if
like they're not, you know, seeing what they want to
see on the field. But I mean, I look at
last year in Denver, they started off oh and two,
it looked like bo Nicks was not really clicking with
the offense and things were just seemed off. And then
week three that you know, they win a game, come
(09:40):
here in Week four and that was a you know,
an interesting game, and then kind of go on a
little bit of a run in the middle of the season.
So I feel like it's a growing process. Every year,
every team is different. Every even if you bring back,
you know, however many people, it's still every year is different.
So you know, there's gonna be a learning curve, there's
gonna be a grow process. But I don't think that
(10:01):
that's anything to freak out about. I think it's just
the natural progression of the season.
Speaker 1 (10:04):
What do you make of the star power on both
sides of the ball. Start off offensively, you got Garrett Wilson.
Then the the defensive side, of course, you got Quinn
and Williams. I go back a level, you got Jamie Sherwood,
you got Quincy Williams. Of course Quinn's brother, his older brother.
You got Saus Gardner as well. You're very familiar with
number one cornerbacks Patrick Certan, the twenty twenty four Defensive
(10:29):
Player of the Year. Yeah.
Speaker 2 (10:30):
I mean, I think you look up and down this
roster like they've got the guys, They've got the star
power offensively and defensively. I'm excited to see Garrett Wilson
obviously connecting with his former college teammate. That's, you know,
going to be a big storyline this season, and we've
already seen it out on the field. And you know,
same thing. Defensively, I think cornerbacks. You know, obviously I
(10:52):
saw how valuable of a position that can be last year,
and you know, having one side of the field entirely
shut down is very valuable. So really excited to see
Sauce this year. I think he's in for a big
year as well.
Speaker 1 (11:03):
I think people are sleeping on the defensive line a
little bit because we just got done with those joint
practices with the Giants, of course, and then the game
a couple weeks later. You look at the judge projected starters.
Up front, you got quinnin, you got Will McDonald who
a ten and a half sacks last year. You got
Jermaine Johnson who was lost to an achilles terror in
(11:26):
Week two last year. He's cham chomping at the bit.
And then finally you trade for Harrison Phillips, an established
run stopper and he's got great presence. That's one thing
that I want to get your takeaway on this. He
spoke to the media the other day. Aaron Glenn stressed
the fact that he's one of us. He's kind of
a guy that we want in this program.
Speaker 2 (11:49):
Yeah, I mean, I think just from that one him
talking to the media once, you could tell like it
feels like he's built for this team. He's built to
be coached by Aaron Glenn. I mean that emotional mature
that AG has talked about, I feel like he's got it.
He's obviously a veteran guy. He's seen a lot of football,
and I really liked what he said about you know,
obviously he has a proven track record of being successful
(12:12):
on the field, but he felt like his biggest contribution
was going to be helping the guys around him and
pointing out things that he's seen before and you know,
kind of pouring into the younger players. So I liked
that that was where his mind was at. Obviously, we
want to see him, you know, produce on the field too,
but like having the mindset that he wants to help
the younger players around him, I feel like fits what
they're trying to do.
Speaker 1 (12:32):
I thought it was fascinating that he also said that
Kevin O'Connell talked to him when the Vikings traded him
to the Jets and said, this team is on the rise.
You rarely don't hear that come trade time. Maybe you
exchange pleasantries and say thank you for this, but Koc
went out of his way to say that, hey, you're
(12:53):
going to a place where good things are around the corner.
Speaker 2 (12:57):
Yeah. I think that speaks to you know, what's going
on here, but it also speaks to the kind of
player that they saw in him where they wanted to
let him know. You know, like you're going into a
good place. We value you here, but we think you're
headed for good things as well. So I think you
know nothing but positive there in terms of what's being
built here, but also what he can bring to that.
Speaker 1 (13:17):
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When you look at the Jets by position, where do
(13:37):
you think they can hang their hat on? You know,
we just went through the roster cuts, reducing the roster
to fifty three, but the waiver claims come in and
things like that, Where do you think this team can
hang it head on early in the season.
Speaker 2 (13:51):
I'm really excited about the defensive line, I think, especially
after those additions. I mean they've talked throughout the summer
everything starts up front, both offensively and defensively. But you know,
I was already feeling like the defensive line had some
star power, and now, you know, you get a few additions.
I think it's it's going to be an exciting group too.
Speaker 1 (14:07):
Well. Off the side of the ball, we mentioned fields before,
Jets were less than the NFL. I've said this multiple
times on the podcast, less than the NFL in rush
attempts last year. They've put a lot of investments into
that offensive line. And then you saw the backs throughout
the summertime. You got Bret Saul, you got Braylan Allen,
(14:29):
who seemingly is gaining confidence by the day. And then
Isaiah Davis who's dealt with the ankle injury. But they
like his skill set as well, and he's got really
good hands out of the backfield.
Speaker 2 (14:40):
Yeah, I mean Isaiah Davis brailing out. Both still really
young players, right, so not only just they're in their
second year. But they're also on the younger age, you know,
entering their second year, so I think there's still tons
of development there for them. And you know, I what
I've seen from Allen in the preseason and you know,
out of training, I mean, it's just he is powerful,
(15:02):
He is like, he's a scary guy. So you know,
I'm excited to see I think he could take a
jump again. Obviously had a great start last year, but
I'm excited to see the wrong game. And then you
throw in justin fields as well, and having a you know,
a mobile quarterback also just is going to do nothing
but add to that.
Speaker 1 (15:19):
So we're leaning on your experience here last year in Denver.
Is that where the Broncos were at early in the
year where they said, hey, our defense is going to
keep us in position to win games, and then the
offense is going to start to take off. Because the
Jets defensively a lot of pieces, a lot of continuity there,
(15:40):
where offensively there's a lot of newness. There is a
lot of talent, we know that, but do you see
similar blueprints.
Speaker 2 (15:49):
Absolutely? I think, you know, like I said, there was
always the internal belief that they were on the right
track and that they could have something special offensively, but
it took a bit and you know defensively too though.
You know, you look at that team, they really only
had like their biggest star power over there was Patzertan,
and you know the rest of them were kind of
like these self made guys that you know, just came
(16:12):
in and proved themselves and were ready to work. And
so I think, you know, there was the belief in
the defense, but there were question marks kind of all
over the place, but you know, they really outside noise
was blocked and they were like, we're here to work
and we're working with the guys that we got around us.
And so, you know, early in the season, definitely the
defense kept them in games, and then the offense was
(16:32):
able to capitalize. And then slowly throughout the season the
offense started picking it up and evening it out where
you know, defense was keeping them in games, offense was
keeping them in games kind of week to week. But
I definitely think, you know, they relied on that strong
defensive performance early on while the offense was still kind
of figuring out how to make things click with the
rookie quarterback.
Speaker 1 (16:51):
How much did certain travel with opposition receivers because I
bring that up because the Jets of the ability to
do that now, and we haven't seen them game plan
anybody yet. So we're looking ahead to week one and
we're gonna break this down next week with Bart Scott
and Brian Baldinger, of course. But DK Metcalf. People are
(17:13):
looking at DK Metcalf and saying, that's the Steelers top receiver.
Do you move Sauce with them? What did you see
last year in Denver? What also do you anticipate here
because one thing Sauces said multiple times is that they're
gonna do different things with me here. Yeah.
Speaker 2 (17:28):
I definitely saw that from certain and that was like
a point of pride for him, Like he loved being
put in those positions. I remember even coming here in
week four and you know, he was looking forward to
going up against Garrett Wilson.
Speaker 1 (17:38):
And like that was like over in London.
Speaker 2 (17:41):
Yeah, and he was, you know, he loved being He
always said he wanted to go up against the best,
the best, and they gave him the opportunity to do that.
I'm curious to see how that plays out here. You know.
I also think a guy like Brandon Stevens like that
is somebody that has really flashed in camp as well,
and so you know, I am us to see what
the game plan will be with that. I don't know
(18:03):
in past years has that, you know, I don't know
what the situation has been in past years.
Speaker 1 (18:07):
I do a lot of that. No, Yeah, so you.
Speaker 2 (18:09):
Know, I'm curious to see how it plays out. I
do think, like you said, they have said it seems
like they're going to do a lot of different things.
So you know, I'm curious what that will look like.
Speaker 1 (18:19):
Yeah, Jets obviously playing the Broncos this year in London
last year mentioned in the game week four. Yeah, Jets
Broncos a little bit later in this year and also
across the country. What do you anticipate in terms of
the unknown next week? Because it's interesting that the way
(18:40):
Aaron Glenn has approached this week specifically, like it's been
very much in training camp mode where he hasn't flipped
the page at least externally to Pittsburgh. But I'm sure
him and his coaching staff are well underway in terms
(19:01):
of their prep for the Steelers. And then maybe next
week as soon as Monday comes, Hey, fellas, it's the
Steelers and that's the only thing that matters.
Speaker 2 (19:09):
Yeah, I think, you know, obviously they've spoken extensively about
they want this to be a run first offense. I
think obviously with the limited snaps we've seen from Justin Fields,
I'm still curious to see how this past game pans out.
I know we've got Garrett Wilson, but we're still waiting
to see who else is, you know, going to really
step up in that number two position. Obviously, you know
(19:30):
you have talented guys in the room, but you know,
just because we've had such a small sample size, I
think I'm curious to see, you know, the most how
that plays out.
Speaker 1 (19:40):
Well. You mentioned Jay Ray before Josh Reynolds, and he's
got the familiarity with the coaching staff and I think
they know what he's going to bring to the table. Also,
good news on the injury front. It sounds like with
a number of these guys, like we talked about Isaiah
Davis before, we're going to have to see about the
health of Tyrod Tayler. But Glenn sounds confid and that
(20:00):
he'll be back as we would think that probably Ellen
Wizard too, because we have not seen Allen's Layard Ellen Zard,
excuse me, the last couple of weeks of the shoulder injury,
so that could change the dynamic. Also, you just wrote
a story about Arian's death. Where's his mindset right now?
Because I think he can change the entire dynamic of
(20:21):
the Jets offense down the line. I'm not saying he's
got to have one hundred yards in Week one. I'm
not saying that at all. But I'm saying he's got
a skill set that nobody else does on this team. Yeah.
Speaker 2 (20:31):
Absolutely, I mean you've heard it from everybody across locker room,
cross coaching staff. He is a speedy guy and I
really liked what he was just He was just talking
to me about how he's just being a sponge soaking
in everything he can from every player. And you know,
I even asked him, like which players, and He's like,
you know, the veterans in my room, but I'm also
talking to the quarterbacks. I'm also talking to guys who've
(20:51):
just been around the league for a while and can
really just give me any sort of nuggets that will
help me in my first year. So he seems like
he's eager to learn, he's eager to fill in wherever
need be to help this team, And I think that's
the best approach you can have as a rookie, right
is like, I'm here to do whatever I can to contribute.
So I love his mindset. I think. I agree his
skill set is extremely unique. I think he can add
(21:13):
a lot to the offense, and he's explosive and I'm
just excited to see what he can contribute.
Speaker 1 (21:18):
Do you like his energy when you spoke to him,
because it seems like the game is definitely not too
big for him.
Speaker 2 (21:23):
Yeah. No, he he seems like he is kind of
similar to how I feel about Justin Field's just level headed,
like you know, he's just even keeled, you know. He
seems like he's taking in that emotional maturity that Age
is preaching about. So I'm excited about him.
Speaker 1 (21:40):
No surprises here the Jets seventh player draft class. They
are all on the roster. Malchi Moore went out with
a bang this preseason, very impressive outing against the Philadelphia Eagles,
so he's another guy to watch Defensively. The Jets are
set at starters week one when you're talking about Andre
siscoing Tony Adam, but will we see mel Kai Moore
(22:03):
as some personnel packages. That's something we don't know.
Speaker 2 (22:06):
Yeah, no, I mean at the beginning of the summer
ag he was saying he was going to compete for
a spot, and we've seen him do that throughout the summer,
and so, you know, I don't think the competition stops
here just because you know, training camp's over and maybe
the starters have been you know, solidified. I think, like
similar to the roster, it's fluid, and so I think
we're going to continue to see him compete for that
(22:26):
spot throughout the season.
Speaker 1 (22:28):
Aaron Glenn very direct. He'll let you know where he
stands on everything. He was asked about the center competition
today and that right now he's not ready to unveil.
So I mean that could go all the way up
to Gain day. That's that's kind of my takeaway from
today's news conference.
Speaker 2 (22:47):
Yeah, right, No, I agree. I mean, even if he
does know, he doesn't want to say.
Speaker 1 (22:52):
Yeah, that's right. Yeah, So he's not gonna be saying
so that's right now. We'll have to see if that
changes next week. But the other thing, when you look
at the Jets, you have offensive lined up and I
think they kept what is it the number we were
counting up the position groups. I think it's ten offensive
linement in all. Initially we got to see what the
(23:15):
corresponding moves are after these waiver claims. But when you're
speaking about a line that goes from left to right
olu fashion to at left tackle entering year two, you
got John Simpson left guard, the veteran Well's thee its
center position, either it's Tip or Josh Myers, the guy
who's got a lot of starting experience with the Green
Bay Packers. At right guard, Elijah Vera Tucker, and then
(23:38):
of course at right tackle the rookie or my membo.
I would be remiss if I didn't ask you about
Veratt Tucker, because he somehow kind of flies under the
radar here because the Jets do have those young bookend
tackles and they're gonna be challenged right away by TJ. Watt.
But Verrett Tucker has been outstanding throughout the summer.
Speaker 2 (24:01):
He has and even you know, when the media talks
to him, he has said repeatedly like this is the
best I felt coming off of an offseason. And so
that's exciting to hear from a player you know like,
and then to see it translate on the field. You know,
I'm excited for him for sure this season.
Speaker 1 (24:20):
What's your anticipation in terms of Jets Steelers? What do
you think about the matchup as far as the league
putting this Sunday Marquis the afternoon game. You got Aaron
Rodgers coming back justin fields, facing this former team, Mike Tomlins.
Such an accomplished coach who's been doing this for nearly
two decades. What an incredible run with the Steelers every
(24:42):
year the right where you want to be. Last year,
of course they made the playoffs again. And then on
the other side of the ball, you got Aaron Glenn
returning to New York.
Speaker 2 (24:53):
Yeah, I mean quarterbacks switching places for a week one
matchup essentially. I mean, it doesn't get more exciting than
not to start the season.
Speaker 1 (25:01):
So thanks for Sam.
Speaker 2 (25:03):
Thanks.
Speaker 1 (25:03):
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long on Official Podcast. Next week we're talking Jets, Steelers.
It's time to get it on MHM
Last season, Susannah Weir covered the Broncos in Denver. This season,
the Staten Island native was added to a reporting team.
She's coming up next we meet anybody in the world,
and I think we're gonna win next Sunday and it's
this gets wonderful.
Speaker 2 (00:21):
Put your seat belts and getting ready for the ride.
Speaker 1 (00:28):
The Official Jets Podcast is presented by Kendra Scott, the
jewelry company that's shining bright and doing good. Personalize your
game day look by shopping spirited styles and so much
more at your local Kendra Scott store or kendrascott dot com,
where team spirit meets personal style. Susannah, Welcome to the podcast.
(00:49):
You happy to be here, So take us through the summer.
What has this experience been like reporting on a new team.
Speaker 2 (00:56):
Yeah, it's been great. I think I feel like I
was spoiled even at a really good time. New coaching staff,
new general manager. I feel like I've loved the energy.
I've loved the new mindset that I feel like this
team has. Obviously I haven't seen what it's been like
in the past, but everything that I've seen, the vibe
just seems to be great with these players, with this staff,
So I'm excited for the season to get started.
Speaker 1 (01:17):
All right, So folks are going to be reading you
on New York Just dot Com throughout the year. But actually,
last season twenty twenty four twenty five, you were with
the Broncos. That's one of Aaron Glenn's mentors in Sean Payton.
Tell us about that experience.
Speaker 2 (01:34):
Yeah, it was great. I honestly feel like I see
a lot of similarities already, just between the things that
they preach. I think Aaron Glenn has talked a lot
about emotional maturity and how important that's going to be
for his team. I feel like that's definitely something I
saw with Sean Payton. And also, you know, with this roster,
it's a young team. I feel like that was something
I saw last year in Denver two and I kind
(01:54):
of liked the young and hungry type of team, and
I feel like something similar could be happening here.
Speaker 1 (02:00):
When did you know the Broncos were on something last year?
Speaker 2 (02:03):
Honestly, it was interesting because I felt it during training camp,
and I think that was my first NFL season, and
so a lot of people in the building were saying,
you know, there's always this excitement during the preseason. There's
always this excitement in training camp. You never know how
it's actually going to pan out. But from being around
the guys last year in the locker room during preseason,
(02:23):
I feel like there was just an energy there like
they had this internal belief. There were a lot of
people on the outside that were maybe doubting it, but
from the moment I got there, I felt like there
was an internal belief that the guys had in the
locker room.
Speaker 1 (02:36):
So you are a New York native, I am in
Staten Island, right, Yes, we won't say what team your
family I was always rooted for might have been, the
crossdown neighbors in yours might have been. But with that
being said, do you find it different in terms of
daily coverage coming out from Denver and then now being
(02:58):
here in New York?
Speaker 2 (02:59):
Yeah, I mean being from New York obviously very proud
to be from New York. I feel like there's just
a different energy in this city, and especially with this team,
Crosstown team, there's just this hunger to win. I feel
like these fans have wanted that for a while, and
so it's exciting to be here. It's a cool environment
and obviously you know, returning home is a special opportunities.
Speaker 1 (03:21):
What about your interactions with the players.
Speaker 2 (03:23):
So far, It's been great. I feel like, you know,
like I said, a lot of young guys that are
just eager excited to be here. I feel like I've
felt the energy from the moment I got here, and
you know, just excited to see what some of these
players do when they get out there in a couple weeks.
Speaker 1 (03:38):
Speaking of energy, when people ask you on the outside,
what's ag what is Aaron Glenn like? Because you're absorbing
that energy on a daily basis, whether it's outside here
during training camp or downstairs in the media room.
Speaker 2 (03:54):
I feel like he tells it like it is. He
is like to the point, he's going to tell you
exactly what he thinks, how he feels. And I love that.
I feel like that's what you need out of a
head coach. I feel like you need somebody who's gonna
give it to you straight. And I feel like every
player that we've talked to is you know, said the
same thing that they never have to guess what he's thinking.
He's going to tell him, tell to him straight. And
we even saw that in the preseason games when he
(04:15):
would pull guys over on the sideline immediately when they're
coming off the field. So I love it. I think
that's what you need from a head coach.
Speaker 1 (04:21):
All right, major takeaways from the roster cut down here
Tuesday that happened at four pm. The Jets also had
a few waiver claims three players that acquired via waivers.
Rosters never entirely don Darren Mouji his personal staff going
to be continuing to look at all avenues in order
(04:41):
to improve it. But any surprises for you.
Speaker 2 (04:45):
I wouldn't. I would say the only surprise is I
you know, you always are rooting for maybe an undrafted
guy to make the jump there, and we didn't see
any of that. I'm curious to hear about past seasons.
I know that you guys have typically had at least
one drafted rookie make the team, and I was a
bit surprised to not see at least one. But in
(05:05):
terms of just breaking it down position by a position,
there was nothing that really struck me as crazy, crazy surprising.
But I do think it's interesting how young the team is.
We've talked about it. I mean, thirty one players have
four or fewer years of experience in the NFL. I
think that's you know, but then you talk about the
guys who are the veteran players, and there's four guys
(05:26):
over that are thirty plus years old, and two of
them have extensive experience with the Jets. And then you
have you know, Josh Reynolds, who has experienced with a
lot of teams, also has experienced with Aaron Glenn and
with Tanner. So it's just an interesting group of those
veteran guys. I think pairing that with the young team
will be interesting to see.
Speaker 1 (05:46):
Well, I'm glad you mentioned a number of these udfa's
because in fact, the Jets late Wednesday afternoon early Thursday morning,
they're going to release a few of these names. As
far as Quentin Skinner being back, Brandon Smith as well.
Brandon Smith experience here with the Jets, he played during
(06:07):
the preseason last year, actually was acquired last August, and
then Quentin Prichard as well, so not Quentin Pritchard, Quentin Skinner,
excuse me, Jamal Pritchard back. So a few of those
udfas that I know fans were very much interested in
clearing waivers and coming back here, so they will be
part of this program.
Speaker 2 (06:29):
Yeah, no, and I think that's great. I feel like
with the practice squad you kind of have these like
roster mechanics that go on with like managing. Obviously, people
on the practice squad can be elevated up to the
active roster, so I think obviously there's a lot of
thought that goes into the practice squad as well, and
so having those guys back I think is super valuable.
Speaker 1 (06:46):
Exavier Gibson on the roster. He was asked directly about
that today Aaron Glenn, and he said, this guy's dynamic
with the ball in his hands, and we have to
weigh special team failue big time in some of these
roster decisions. And when you look at a guy like Gibson,
not only does he provide an offensive skill set that
(07:08):
you like, but he is a sure handed return man
who's made some big plays in the league from that spot.
And for the Jets to win this year, they got
to have sound special teams.
Speaker 2 (07:20):
Yeah. I think special teams is really important. It doesn't
surprise me that that's something that they're focusing on because
it can essentially make or break a game. I think
somebody like Kenay as well, having him on the roster,
the expertise he brings with special teams, and then even
just one of the claims today we see is a
big special teams contributor. So I think it's an important thing.
(07:41):
Some teams may not value it as much as others,
but I think it's a good thing to focus on
here all.
Speaker 1 (07:46):
Right, justin Fields, completely different quarterback than the guy you
saw last year in Boone Knicks bon Nicks, of course,
top fifteen pick overall, was in a quarterback competition. They're
in den and they got better throughout the year. Justin Fields.
He signs in free agency here in March, the Jets
(08:07):
safe from the get you are our quarterback one? What
have you seen from him? And also what have you
heard from Fields?
Speaker 2 (08:16):
Yeah, he seems like a very level headed guy, right,
And he even said that that's been just the past
six months that he feels like he's really gotten to
that point where he's not letting outside noise influence him.
But I think, you know, from what I've seen and
heard from the coaching staff, this feels like it's going
to be a system that is catered to his skill set.
You know, he was hesitant to speak on his previous
(08:38):
systems that he's been in. But from what I've seen
so far, I feel like this feels like a good
fit for him. And obviously it's his third NFL team.
Now he's really, you know, looking to take the next
step in his career, and this feels like a good
place to do it.
Speaker 1 (08:52):
Third team of three seasons, fourth offensive coordinator in five years.
So do you imagine this is going to be a
bit of a growing process for everybody, not just Fields
Tanner Angstran who is ready for this opportunity to be
calling place in the NFL. It's got great mentors and
guys like Jim Harbaugh and Ben Johnson of course there
(09:14):
with the Lions, but you know, these guys are all
working together for the first time.
Speaker 2 (09:19):
Yeah, I mean, I feel like it's a growing process
every year, right, Like I feel like out the gate
week one, a lot of fans will like panic if
like they're not, you know, seeing what they want to
see on the field. But I mean, I look at
last year in Denver, they started off oh and two,
it looked like bo Nicks was not really clicking with
the offense and things were just seemed off. And then
week three that you know, they win a game, come
(09:40):
here in Week four and that was a you know,
an interesting game, and then kind of go on a
little bit of a run in the middle of the season.
So I feel like it's a growing process. Every year,
every team is different. Every even if you bring back,
you know, however many people, it's still every year is different.
So you know, there's gonna be a learning curve, there's
gonna be a grow process. But I don't think that
(10:01):
that's anything to freak out about. I think it's just
the natural progression of the season.
Speaker 1 (10:04):
What do you make of the star power on both
sides of the ball. Start off offensively, you got Garrett Wilson.
Then the the defensive side, of course, you got Quinn
and Williams. I go back a level, you got Jamie Sherwood,
you got Quincy Williams. Of course Quinn's brother, his older brother.
You got Saus Gardner as well. You're very familiar with
number one cornerbacks Patrick Certan, the twenty twenty four Defensive
(10:29):
Player of the Year. Yeah.
Speaker 2 (10:30):
I mean, I think you look up and down this
roster like they've got the guys, They've got the star
power offensively and defensively. I'm excited to see Garrett Wilson
obviously connecting with his former college teammate. That's, you know,
going to be a big storyline this season, and we've
already seen it out on the field. And you know,
same thing. Defensively, I think cornerbacks. You know, obviously I
(10:52):
saw how valuable of a position that can be last year,
and you know, having one side of the field entirely
shut down is very valuable. So really excited to see
Sauce this year. I think he's in for a big
year as well.
Speaker 1 (11:03):
I think people are sleeping on the defensive line a
little bit because we just got done with those joint
practices with the Giants, of course, and then the game
a couple weeks later. You look at the judge projected starters.
Up front, you got quinnin, you got Will McDonald who
a ten and a half sacks last year. You got
Jermaine Johnson who was lost to an achilles terror in
(11:26):
Week two last year. He's cham chomping at the bit.
And then finally you trade for Harrison Phillips, an established
run stopper and he's got great presence. That's one thing
that I want to get your takeaway on this. He
spoke to the media the other day. Aaron Glenn stressed
the fact that he's one of us. He's kind of
a guy that we want in this program.
Speaker 2 (11:49):
Yeah, I mean, I think just from that one him
talking to the media once, you could tell like it
feels like he's built for this team. He's built to
be coached by Aaron Glenn. I mean that emotional mature
that AG has talked about, I feel like he's got it.
He's obviously a veteran guy. He's seen a lot of football,
and I really liked what he said about you know,
obviously he has a proven track record of being successful
(12:12):
on the field, but he felt like his biggest contribution
was going to be helping the guys around him and
pointing out things that he's seen before and you know,
kind of pouring into the younger players. So I liked
that that was where his mind was at. Obviously, we
want to see him, you know, produce on the field too,
but like having the mindset that he wants to help
the younger players around him, I feel like fits what
they're trying to do.
Speaker 1 (12:32):
I thought it was fascinating that he also said that
Kevin O'Connell talked to him when the Vikings traded him
to the Jets and said, this team is on the rise.
You rarely don't hear that come trade time. Maybe you
exchange pleasantries and say thank you for this, but Koc
went out of his way to say that, hey, you're
(12:53):
going to a place where good things are around the corner.
Speaker 2 (12:57):
Yeah. I think that speaks to you know, what's going
on here, but it also speaks to the kind of
player that they saw in him where they wanted to
let him know. You know, like you're going into a
good place. We value you here, but we think you're
headed for good things as well. So I think you
know nothing but positive there in terms of what's being
built here, but also what he can bring to that.
Speaker 1 (13:17):
Jets fans, the twenty twenty five season is almost here.
From now until September one, grab tickets to any Jets
home game with no fees during our limited time Labor
Day weekend offer by now at Onyjets dot com slash tickets.
When you look at the Jets by position, where do
(13:37):
you think they can hang their hat on? You know,
we just went through the roster cuts, reducing the roster
to fifty three, but the waiver claims come in and
things like that, Where do you think this team can
hang it head on early in the season.
Speaker 2 (13:51):
I'm really excited about the defensive line, I think, especially
after those additions. I mean they've talked throughout the summer
everything starts up front, both offensively and defensively. But you know,
I was already feeling like the defensive line had some
star power, and now, you know, you get a few additions.
I think it's it's going to be an exciting group too.
Speaker 1 (14:07):
Well. Off the side of the ball, we mentioned fields before,
Jets were less than the NFL. I've said this multiple
times on the podcast, less than the NFL in rush
attempts last year. They've put a lot of investments into
that offensive line. And then you saw the backs throughout
the summertime. You got Bret Saul, you got Braylan Allen,
(14:29):
who seemingly is gaining confidence by the day. And then
Isaiah Davis who's dealt with the ankle injury. But they
like his skill set as well, and he's got really
good hands out of the backfield.
Speaker 2 (14:40):
Yeah, I mean Isaiah Davis brailing out. Both still really
young players, right, so not only just they're in their
second year. But they're also on the younger age, you know,
entering their second year, so I think there's still tons
of development there for them. And you know, I what
I've seen from Allen in the preseason and you know,
out of training, I mean, it's just he is powerful,
(15:02):
He is like, he's a scary guy. So you know,
I'm excited to see I think he could take a
jump again. Obviously had a great start last year, but
I'm excited to see the wrong game. And then you
throw in justin fields as well, and having a you know,
a mobile quarterback also just is going to do nothing
but add to that.
Speaker 1 (15:19):
So we're leaning on your experience here last year in Denver.
Is that where the Broncos were at early in the
year where they said, hey, our defense is going to
keep us in position to win games, and then the
offense is going to start to take off. Because the
Jets defensively a lot of pieces, a lot of continuity there,
(15:40):
where offensively there's a lot of newness. There is a
lot of talent, we know that, but do you see
similar blueprints.
Speaker 2 (15:49):
Absolutely? I think, you know, like I said, there was
always the internal belief that they were on the right
track and that they could have something special offensively, but
it took a bit and you know defensively too though.
You know, you look at that team, they really only
had like their biggest star power over there was Patzertan,
and you know the rest of them were kind of
like these self made guys that you know, just came
(16:12):
in and proved themselves and were ready to work. And
so I think, you know, there was the belief in
the defense, but there were question marks kind of all
over the place, but you know, they really outside noise
was blocked and they were like, we're here to work
and we're working with the guys that we got around us.
And so, you know, early in the season, definitely the
defense kept them in games, and then the offense was
(16:32):
able to capitalize. And then slowly throughout the season the
offense started picking it up and evening it out where
you know, defense was keeping them in games, offense was
keeping them in games kind of week to week. But
I definitely think, you know, they relied on that strong
defensive performance early on while the offense was still kind
of figuring out how to make things click with the
rookie quarterback.
Speaker 1 (16:51):
How much did certain travel with opposition receivers because I
bring that up because the Jets of the ability to
do that now, and we haven't seen them game plan
anybody yet. So we're looking ahead to week one and
we're gonna break this down next week with Bart Scott
and Brian Baldinger, of course. But DK Metcalf. People are
(17:13):
looking at DK Metcalf and saying, that's the Steelers top receiver.
Do you move Sauce with them? What did you see
last year in Denver? What also do you anticipate here
because one thing Sauces said multiple times is that they're
gonna do different things with me here. Yeah.
Speaker 2 (17:28):
I definitely saw that from certain and that was like
a point of pride for him, Like he loved being
put in those positions. I remember even coming here in
week four and you know, he was looking forward to
going up against Garrett Wilson.
Speaker 1 (17:38):
And like that was like over in London.
Speaker 2 (17:41):
Yeah, and he was, you know, he loved being He
always said he wanted to go up against the best,
the best, and they gave him the opportunity to do that.
I'm curious to see how that plays out here. You know.
I also think a guy like Brandon Stevens like that
is somebody that has really flashed in camp as well,
and so you know, I am us to see what
the game plan will be with that. I don't know
(18:03):
in past years has that, you know, I don't know
what the situation has been in past years.
Speaker 1 (18:07):
I do a lot of that. No, Yeah, so you.
Speaker 2 (18:09):
Know, I'm curious to see how it plays out. I
do think, like you said, they have said it seems
like they're going to do a lot of different things.
So you know, I'm curious what that will look like.
Speaker 1 (18:19):
Yeah, Jets obviously playing the Broncos this year in London
last year mentioned in the game week four. Yeah, Jets
Broncos a little bit later in this year and also
across the country. What do you anticipate in terms of
the unknown next week? Because it's interesting that the way
(18:40):
Aaron Glenn has approached this week specifically, like it's been
very much in training camp mode where he hasn't flipped
the page at least externally to Pittsburgh. But I'm sure
him and his coaching staff are well underway in terms
(19:01):
of their prep for the Steelers. And then maybe next
week as soon as Monday comes, Hey, fellas, it's the
Steelers and that's the only thing that matters.
Speaker 2 (19:09):
Yeah, I think, you know, obviously they've spoken extensively about
they want this to be a run first offense. I
think obviously with the limited snaps we've seen from Justin Fields,
I'm still curious to see how this past game pans out.
I know we've got Garrett Wilson, but we're still waiting
to see who else is, you know, going to really
step up in that number two position. Obviously, you know
(19:30):
you have talented guys in the room, but you know,
just because we've had such a small sample size, I
think I'm curious to see, you know, the most how
that plays out.
Speaker 1 (19:40):
Well. You mentioned Jay Ray before Josh Reynolds, and he's
got the familiarity with the coaching staff and I think
they know what he's going to bring to the table. Also,
good news on the injury front. It sounds like with
a number of these guys, like we talked about Isaiah
Davis before, we're going to have to see about the
health of Tyrod Tayler. But Glenn sounds confid and that
(20:00):
he'll be back as we would think that probably Ellen
Wizard too, because we have not seen Allen's Layard Ellen Zard,
excuse me, the last couple of weeks of the shoulder injury,
so that could change the dynamic. Also, you just wrote
a story about Arian's death. Where's his mindset right now?
Because I think he can change the entire dynamic of
(20:21):
the Jets offense down the line. I'm not saying he's
got to have one hundred yards in Week one. I'm
not saying that at all. But I'm saying he's got
a skill set that nobody else does on this team. Yeah.
Speaker 2 (20:31):
Absolutely, I mean you've heard it from everybody across locker room,
cross coaching staff. He is a speedy guy and I
really liked what he was just He was just talking
to me about how he's just being a sponge soaking
in everything he can from every player. And you know,
I even asked him, like which players, and He's like,
you know, the veterans in my room, but I'm also
talking to the quarterbacks. I'm also talking to guys who've
(20:51):
just been around the league for a while and can
really just give me any sort of nuggets that will
help me in my first year. So he seems like
he's eager to learn, he's eager to fill in wherever
need be to help this team, And I think that's
the best approach you can have as a rookie, right
is like, I'm here to do whatever I can to contribute.
So I love his mindset. I think. I agree his
skill set is extremely unique. I think he can add
(21:13):
a lot to the offense, and he's explosive and I'm
just excited to see what he can contribute.
Speaker 1 (21:18):
Do you like his energy when you spoke to him,
because it seems like the game is definitely not too
big for him.
Speaker 2 (21:23):
Yeah. No, he he seems like he is kind of
similar to how I feel about Justin Field's just level headed,
like you know, he's just even keeled, you know. He
seems like he's taking in that emotional maturity that Age
is preaching about. So I'm excited about him.
Speaker 1 (21:40):
No surprises here the Jets seventh player draft class. They
are all on the roster. Malchi Moore went out with
a bang this preseason, very impressive outing against the Philadelphia Eagles,
so he's another guy to watch Defensively. The Jets are
set at starters week one when you're talking about Andre
siscoing Tony Adam, but will we see mel Kai Moore
(22:03):
as some personnel packages. That's something we don't know.
Speaker 2 (22:06):
Yeah, no, I mean at the beginning of the summer
ag he was saying he was going to compete for
a spot, and we've seen him do that throughout the summer,
and so, you know, I don't think the competition stops
here just because you know, training camp's over and maybe
the starters have been you know, solidified. I think, like
similar to the roster, it's fluid, and so I think
we're going to continue to see him compete for that
(22:26):
spot throughout the season.
Speaker 1 (22:28):
Aaron Glenn very direct. He'll let you know where he
stands on everything. He was asked about the center competition
today and that right now he's not ready to unveil.
So I mean that could go all the way up
to Gain day. That's that's kind of my takeaway from
today's news conference.
Speaker 2 (22:47):
Yeah, right, No, I agree. I mean, even if he
does know, he doesn't want to say.
Speaker 1 (22:52):
Yeah, that's right. Yeah, So he's not gonna be saying
so that's right now. We'll have to see if that
changes next week. But the other thing, when you look
at the Jets, you have offensive lined up and I
think they kept what is it the number we were
counting up the position groups. I think it's ten offensive
linement in all. Initially we got to see what the
(23:15):
corresponding moves are after these waiver claims. But when you're
speaking about a line that goes from left to right
olu fashion to at left tackle entering year two, you
got John Simpson left guard, the veteran Well's thee its
center position, either it's Tip or Josh Myers, the guy
who's got a lot of starting experience with the Green
Bay Packers. At right guard, Elijah Vera Tucker, and then
(23:38):
of course at right tackle the rookie or my membo.
I would be remiss if I didn't ask you about
Veratt Tucker, because he somehow kind of flies under the
radar here because the Jets do have those young bookend
tackles and they're gonna be challenged right away by TJ. Watt.
But Verrett Tucker has been outstanding throughout the summer.
Speaker 2 (24:01):
He has and even you know, when the media talks
to him, he has said repeatedly like this is the
best I felt coming off of an offseason. And so
that's exciting to hear from a player you know like,
and then to see it translate on the field. You know,
I'm excited for him for sure this season.
Speaker 1 (24:20):
What's your anticipation in terms of Jets Steelers? What do
you think about the matchup as far as the league
putting this Sunday Marquis the afternoon game. You got Aaron
Rodgers coming back justin fields, facing this former team, Mike Tomlins.
Such an accomplished coach who's been doing this for nearly
two decades. What an incredible run with the Steelers every
(24:42):
year the right where you want to be. Last year,
of course they made the playoffs again. And then on
the other side of the ball, you got Aaron Glenn
returning to New York.
Speaker 2 (24:53):
Yeah, I mean quarterbacks switching places for a week one
matchup essentially. I mean, it doesn't get more exciting than
not to start the season.
Speaker 1 (25:01):
So thanks for Sam.
Speaker 2 (25:03):
Thanks.
Speaker 1 (25:03):
The Official Jets Podcast is presented by Kendra Scott, the
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(25:26):
we're gonna chat all things Jets and diving into the
National Football League with Bart Scott, the Matt Becker, and
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at Official Jets Podcast at Jets dot NFL dot com
or drop us a message at nine seven three five
(25:47):
four nine four six. We're screening calls, so let's keep
them clean, but your voice will be heard all season
long on Official Podcast. Next week we're talking Jets, Steelers.
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If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
New Heights with Jason & Travis Kelce
Football’s funniest family duo — Jason Kelce of the Philadelphia Eagles and Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs — team up to provide next-level access to life in the league as it unfolds. The two brothers and Super Bowl champions drop weekly insights about the weekly slate of games and share their INSIDE perspectives on trending NFL news and sports headlines. They also endlessly rag on each other as brothers do, chat the latest in pop culture and welcome some very popular and well-known friends to chat with them. Check out new episodes every Wednesday. Follow New Heights on the Wondery App, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. You can listen to new episodes early and ad-free, and get exclusive content on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. And join our new membership for a unique fan experience by going to the New Heights YouTube channel now!
24/7 News: The Latest
The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.