Thomas Jones continues to improve from his calf strain and did some light drills yesterday, but he won’t be in a game again until the start of the regular season.
Eric Mangini said he doesn’t know exactly how the lack of preseason plays will impact the Jets running back, but the coach doesn’t seem concerned.
“Each guy is different,” Mangini said. “With veteran guys who have that experience to draw from, they’ve got a real edge over a young guy [who] had been hurt in camp and then come back, because they haven’t seen as many things.”
Because Jones is coming off two straight seasons in which he gained more than 1,200 yards in each, Mangini said he doesn’t expect the 29-year-old to be hurt by the inactivity when the Jets open against the Patriots on Sept. 9.
“He’s been through a lot of games,” Mangini said. “He’s been through a lot of situations and he’s very active in meetings. We’re pretty comfortable with the combination of his experience, what he’s been doing in the meetings, and his ability to come back and contribute effectively.”
Nick Mangold said he doesn’t believe Jones’ absence will affect the offensive line, either.
“It doesn’t matter who’s behind us,” the center said. “You block the same. You don’t look back there to see who’s running. We’re confident whenever he’s back there, he’ll be fine.”
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Tomorrow’s final preseason game, against the Eagles, should go a long way in clearing up the backup QB situation. Kellen Clemens has solidified the No. 2 spot, but either Marques Tuiasosopo or Brad Smith could be named third-string.
“I think I’ve shown I’m capable of operating this offense,” Tuiasosopo said.
But he’s up against Smith, who also can be used as a receiver and punt returner.
“That’s still a decision for them to make,” Smith said. “I know I’ve done all I can do. But I don’t really look at all that.”
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Curtis Martin‘s locker remains virtually untouched, despite the fact he retired last month. Mangini, asked why, said, “Because he’s Curtis. Curtis still has a presence in the building. He’ll always have a locker in Jets’ fans hearts.”
GM Mike Tannenbaum announced that LB Matt Chatham (foot) was moved to the reserve/PUP (physically unable to perform) list. Chatham hasn’t practiced all training camp.
The Sack Exchange will reunite today to ring the opening bell at the American Stock Exchange. Mark Gastineau, Joe Klecko, Marty Lyons and Abdul Salaam will be joined by owner Woody Johnson to commemorate the opening of the NFL season.
The Jets will honor Wayne Chrebet with a halftime ceremony when they play host to Miami on Sept. 23. . . . The team’s Kickoff Luncheon at Cipriani Downtown Restaurant is today. It helps raise funds for various charities.