Jets Secondary Suffers Another Loss
By Tyson Rauch
Just when you think that things could not get any worse for the New York Jets, the defensive secondary suffers another setback. Cornerback Darrin Walls has been listed as doubtful for Sunday's game versus the Kansas City Chiefs which will force head coach Rex Ryan to revamp his defensive backfield once again. Ryan will more than likely move Antonio Allen back into the starting lineup with either Phillip Adams or Josh Thomas playing on the opposite side.
Smoke and mirrors
At this point Rex Ryan and defensive coordinator Dennis Thurman will have to get very creative with their defensive schemes as the Jets starting cornerbacks are pedestrian at best. Antonio Allen has been struggling with the transition to corner from the safety position while Adams and Thomas are relative unknowns. Kyle Wilson will continue to man the slot position but there is a complete lack of depth from there. The Jets will be forced to play safety Jaiquawn Jarrett in coverage along with the recently signed Marcus Williams.To call this a nightmare for Ryan is an understatement. The only potential bright spot is the fact that the Kansas City Chiefs have struggled to pass the football ranking 30th in yards.
Blitz early and often?
Rex Ryan has two options to help mask the issues in his secondary: 1) play a variety of zones or 2) generate a consistent pass rush. At this point I would expect Ryan to do whatever he can to disrupt the rhythm of the Kansas City passing game.Don't be surprised to see Rex sell out in blitz packages to help generate consistent pressure on quarterback Alex Smith.
Doubtful
CB Darrin Walls (calf/knee)
Questionable
QB Geno Smith (shoulder)
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Tyson Rauch is a freelance writer covering all things NFL. His work can be found on Examiner.com.
