The first of the three-phase NFL off-season training program completed last week. Organized Team Activities or OTAs give rookies the chance to see some live NFL action. They also provide veterans coming off an injury a chance to polish up after missing some time.
New York Jets 2018 OTAs Report
There was no bigger surprise at OTA’s this season than Teddy Bridgewater. The former Vikings quarterback and fantasy football sleeper was dynamic during practices. A healthy Bridgewater would only be a good thing for the Jets. If he can reach the levels he was performing at before his injury, he could fetch a draft pick in a trade. The best case scenario for Bridgewater is that he could also win the starting job, giving the Golden Boy, Sam Darnold, more time to develop. Jet fans shouldn’t be concerned with whose under center for the green and white. Jet fans only interest should be if that person is capable of performing at a high level.
Speaking of the Golden Boy, Darnold had some hiccups. It was reported by ESPN that Darnold showed his inexperience. He bobbled snaps and was sloppy on exchanges with his running backs. All par for the course during a rookie’s first OTA. Darnold should have these issues ironed out by training camp. He did show his talent on throws to wide receivers. He was perfect on out-patterns and middle to long distance passing routes.
Parry Nickerson, the speedster cornerback out of Tulane, also showed his talent. Last Word On Sports OTA Report wouldn’t be complete without recognizing Nickerson’s fluidity in his breaks and lightning fast acceleration to the ball. For a Jets secondary that lacks speed to compete with deep passes, Nickerson has the potential to surpass his sixth round draft status, making the Jets very happy.
Chad Hansen, a 2017 fourth-round pick, came on strong at the end of last season. Hansen shined in a crowded Jets wide receivers room during OTAs. His good hands and smooth route running proved that he is developing. With an ankle injury keeping Terrelle Pryor off the field, Hansen has a chance to fill a roll on this Jets offense.
