Milliner A Welcome Addition To The New York Jets Secondary
By Tyson Rauch
On Sunday the New York Jets secondary should get a substantial boost as defensive back Dee Milliner is expected to return from his ankle injury. Milliner, the Jets best cornerback, missed most of the preseason as well as the team's first game which forced head coach Rex Ryan to rearrange his defensive backfield.
Limited expectations
Do not expect significant contributions right away from Dee Milliner as Rex Ryan will be working the second year player into the defense slowly. According to Ryan the starters will remain Darrin Walls and Antonio Allen with Milliner playing limited reps initially. It would not be surprising to see Dee used in nickel and dime passing situations as he shakes off the proverbial rust.
As for the defensive game plan it is safe to assume that Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers will challenge Milliner the moment he enters the game. It will be interesting to see if Rex Ryan puts Dee Milliner in zone packages or he if throws the young cornerback to the wolves with press coverage. If Milliner is able to perform in press/man coverage situations this will then allow Rex to unleash some of his blitz packages which are vital to disrupt the Green Bay passing attack.
Flexibility going forward
Milliner's return gives Rex Ryan and defensive coordinator Dennis Thurman some flexibility as the team moves forward. With Dee back in the fold Antonio Allen can return to the safety position alongside Calvin Pryor. Another option for the Jets coaching staff to consider is moving Darrin Walls to a reserve role or the nickel position. Either way the New York Jets secondary will be improved by adding a first level defensive back.
One sidenote: On Friday the New York Jets announced that the team has re-signed defensive back Ellis Lankster. The addition of Lankster will give the team some depth in the secondary and another standout on special teams.
Probable
DB Dee Milliner (ankle)
OL Willie Colon (calf)
TE Jeff Cumberland (non-injury)
LB Ikemefuna Enemkpali (foot)
Questionable
DB Josh Bush (quad)
Out
LB A.J. Edds (hamstring)
For more Jets news and updates, visit Jets Central.
Tyson Rauch is a freelance writer covering all things NFL. His work can be found on Examiner.com.
