Offense: While the circus caused by Tim Tebow's lack of playing time went away after his release, the Jets still have a quarterback controversy on their hands after drafting Geno Smith in the second round. Sanchez continues to struggle with his decision-making, and head coach Rex Ryan isn't making it easier for himself in what might be a do-or-die season for both he and Sanchez. The receiving corps should see a boost from Santonio Holmes, who missed 12 games last year. The running back spot has been almost completely re-made, as the team acquired Chris Ivory from New Orleans to compete with Bilal Powell for the starting job. While the Jets did rank 12th in the league in rushing yards, they were only 25th in yards per carry, so whoever wins the job will need to provide more big plays. The offense could only must around 300 yards per game last season, and the Jets surrendered the 5th-most sacks in the league last season. The offensive line likely wasn't the problem so much as Sanchez's shaky play and Shonn Greene's lack of a second gear, but they will still need to do a better job for this offense to be successful.
Defense: The Jets' pass defense didn't give allow many passing yards last year, but forced only 11 interceptions. Part of that has to do with a pass rush that recorded a very pedestrian 30 sacks. The selection of defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson (1st round) should help with that, as Richardson is more of a penetrator than a space-eater. The linebacking corps is anchored by David Harris, but Calvin Pace's production has slid in recent years. In the secondary, rookie Dee Milliner (1st round) will have some big shoes to fill, as he will replace All-Pro cornerback Darrelle Revis. The signing of Dawan Landry should also help.
Impact Free Agent: Tight end Kellen Winslow. After struggling to find a team in 2012, Winslow will be tasked (along with Jeff Cumberland) to replace the departed Dustin Keller's production. While he's not the athletic playmaker he once was, Winslow still is a solid underneath option, and should provide the quarterback with a nice safety valve. To expect big production would be unwise, but if Winslow is able to stay healthy, he's still a viable pass-catcher.
Impact Rookie: Cornerback Dee Milliner. Being the guy who replaces an All-Pro is never easy, but that's the task facing the first-round pick out of Alabama. The transition shouldn't be super-rough, as Antonio Cromartie will begin the season as the team's #1 corner, but Milliner flashed to potential to be a shut-down corner playing against strong talent in the SEC. It will just take some time.
Player to Watch: Wide receiver Santonio Holmes. Since coming over from Pittsburgh, the eighth-year wideout hasn't lived up to expectations. After a tumultuous end to the 2011 campaign, Holmes missed all but four games for the Jets in 2012. If either Sanchez or Smith are to succeed at quarterback, they'll need Holmes to prove he's more than an overpaid #2 receiver.
Record: (6-10, t-3rd in AFC East)
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