NFL

Ryan has fresh take on Jenkins

Rex Ryan said he may keep a closer eye on Kris Jenkins tomorrow than he did in the opener to make sure the big tackle holds up physically.

“I guess a little bit,” Ryan said of Jenkins, who still was listed as questionable (back). “I like to keep fresh pass rushers in there, anyway.”

But no one really will take his place when he’s on the sideline.

JETS BLOG

“He’s such an unusual guy,” Ryan said of the defensive tackle, listed at 360. “If he’s not in there, the other team will no-huddle you then. He’s that kind of difference-maker. I feel good with the guys we have behind him, [but] there are only one or two Kris Jenkins in the league. You have to be smart with him.”

Jenkins had one tackle a week ago against Houston, but constantly put pressure on quarterback Matt Schaub.

*

Not surprisingly, New England LB Jerod Mayo, who was listed as questionable all week with a knee injury, was listed as out yesterday. For the Jets, according to Ryan, Erik Ainge, who was listed as questionable with an illness on Thursday, was “fine” yesterday. Kellen Clemens (right elbow) was listed as probable.

*

Ryan has ruffled feathers with some of his comments about the Patriots, but with the game almost here, he didn’t put much stock in any of the banter that has gone on between the two teams.

“I don’t think it really matters. When it is kicked off, there is 11 on their side and 11 on our side,” Ryan said. “It’s on and all that other stuff is out the window.”

Ryan also said he liked the attitude of his players.

“Guys that love to play the game and would do it for a lot less, but they don’t have to,” Ryan said with a smile. “I think the same thing about coaches. I know I would do it for a lot less, but if you’re going to have to pay somebody, it might as well be me.”