A sportswriter for the NY Dailey News suggested that Rex Ryan’s latest decision to appoint IK Enemkpali as a team captain for Thursday night’s game against the Jets has crossed the line of decency – and he’s probably right.
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Orchard Park, New York – The National Football League ought to send Rex Ryan a thank you note.
He said he wasn’t “going to talk about that one”.
Pryor was the Jets’ first-round draft pick past year and struggled as Ryan and defensive coordinator Dennis Thurman played him mostly at free safety instead of his natural strong safety spot because of personnel issues. Enemkpali, of course, broke Jets quarterback Geno Smith’s jaw with a punch during training camp – and was immediately cut by the team. “It was never a thing of disrespect, so it’s hard for me to understand”. Anyway, that helmet was a telling metaphor: Go ahead and ask your questions, I’m wearing protection.
A few are arguing that Ryan is making light of a situation that shouldn’t be poked, a violent attack by one player on another. Keeping up that type of play is going to be hard for him, but he will put up big numbers once again against the Jets.
It was a drop-the-mike moment for Ryan, whose news conferences are regarded as must-attend events.
Rex Ryan is clearly charged up for another shot at Tom Brady and the Patriots. Asked about the Jets’ defense, he said: “Well, it looks pretty darn good. I know you guys don’t believe me, but it has not entered my mind yet about all those other things”. During a conference call with Jets reporters, Ryan reiterated he thought the Jets’ 2013 draft class was “A-plus”, but added of last year’s selections: “Not so much”.
“If this is something that was done where you’re trying to show up a team, then I get it, but I never do that”, Ryan said.
Prisco’s take: “At 5-3, they have a chance to take a real lead in the AFC wild-card race if they can beat the Bills Thursday night”. Being able to play with torn ligaments in his left hand, Fitzpatrick helped the Jets to a 28-23 win over the Jaguars on Sunday earning more credibility with his teammates. Sammy Watkins (ankle) and LeSean McCoy (shoulder) are both listed as probable, and both are expected to play. “It’s a way of taking the edge off. And he’s always going to be himself”. But it appears that even before he faces his old team, Ryan is “On To New England”.
“He’s insane. He is hilarious”, Swinney said. That’s a perk Rex Ryan is only starting to enjoy. Knowing he’s a consistent producer and the top option in a run-first offense makes him someone to consider, no matter what the matchup is.
Not everyone’s was on board. Smith said of Enemkpali being named a captain.
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“We’re all ready to contribute to the team”, Fleming said. Surprisingly, Ryan Fitzpatrick has exceeded expectations this season at quarterback.
