NEW YORK JETS DAILY CLIPS

August 25, 2014

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Table of Contents

ASSOCIATED PRESS ................................................................................................................................................ 2

Jets' Patterson to rejoin team after going AWOL (Dennis Waszak) .......................................................................... 2

Jets cut 6, including WR Ford and CB Dowling (Dennis Waszak) ............................................................................... 3

Jets' Saunders practices, will play at Philly (Dennis Waszak) .................................................................................... 4

NEWSDAY .............................................................................................................................................................. 4

Jets trim roster to 75 (Kimberley Martin).................................................................................................................. 4

Dimitri Patterson returns to Jets after going AWOL (Kimberley Martin) .................................................................. 5

Geno Smith on rookie season: I second-guessed myself too much (Kimberley Martin) ........................................... 6

THE RECORD .......................................................................................................................................................... 6

Jets notes: Rookie receiver Jalen Saunders returns to practice (J.P. Pelzman) ......................................................... 6

Jets cornerback Dimitri Patterson goes AWOL (J.P. Pelzman) .................................................................................. 7

STAR-LEDGER ......................................................................................................................................................... 8

Dimitri Patterson going AWOL just latest, most dramatic twist for Jets' tumultuous CB spot (Darryl Slater) .......... 8

Jets, Giants defenders explain how they are adjusting to NFL's emphasis on downfield contact (Darryl Slater)... 10

Jalen Saunders, after medical incident, returns to Jets practice, will play 'a great deal' vs. Eagles (Darryl Slater) 12

Michael Vick will start vs. Eagles, but won't play for long, says Rex Ryan (Darryl Slater) ....................................... 13

NEW YORK POST .................................................................................................................................................. 14

Jets can’t af-Ford struggling Jacoby (Brian Costello) ............................................................................................... 14

Jets cut speed-demon Jacoby Ford, 5 others (Brian Costello)................................................................................. 15

After being AWOL 2 days, Jets CB to return to team (Brian Costello) ..................................................................... 15

NEW YORK DAILY NEWS ...................................................................................................................................... 16

Dimitri Patterson to return to Jets after 'unexcused' absence (Seth Walder) ........................................................ 16

THE WALL STREET JOURNAL ................................................................................................................................ 17

Reporter's Notebook: Dimitri Patterson to Rejoin Jets (Stu Woo) .......................................................................... 17

ESPN NEW YORK .................................................................................................................................................. 17

Jets cut Jacoby Ford, 5 others (Rich Cimini) ............................................................................................................ 17

Dimitri Patterson set to rejoin Jets (Rich Cimini)..................................................................................................... 18

NJ.COM ................................................................................................................................................................ 19

Jets cornerback Dimitri Patterson AWOL since before Friday's game (Dom Cosentino) ........................................ 19

Jets release Jacoby Ford, Ras-I Dowling in latest round of cuts; roster now down to 75 (Dom Cosentino) ........... 21

METRO NEW YORK .............................................................................................................................................. 22

Dimitri Patterson goes missing from Jets with ‘unexcused’ absence (Kristian Dyer) .............................................. 22

Daily Clips Cont.

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Demario Davis: God told me Jets will have ‘special year’ (Kristian Dyer) ............................................................... 23

SUNDAY’S SPORTS TRANSACTIONS ...................................................................................................................... 23

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Jets' Patterson to rejoin team after going AWOL (Dennis Waszak) Associated Press August 24, 2014

http://pro32.ap.org/article/jets-patterson-rejoin-team-after-going-awol

NEW YORK (AP) — Dimitri Patterson's mysterious absence appears over.

The veteran cornerback was set to rejoin the New York Jets on Sunday night after not showing up for the team's game against the Giants on Friday night and having no direct communication with anyone in the organization since.

Agent Drew Rosenhaus confirmed in an email to The Associated Press that Patterson planned to return to the Jets' training facility in Florham Park, New Jersey. It was still unclear why Patterson left the team for about 48 hours, a situation that general manager John Idzik called "highly unusual."

Idzik announced during a conference call Sunday that he learned through Rosenhaus on Saturday that Patterson was OK physically and it is not believed to be a legal issue. But at that time, neither Idzik nor coach Rex Ryan had messages left for Patterson returned by him directly.

"I'd like to talk to him," Idzik said, "so we could figure out what's behind it."

The 31-year-old Patterson was with the team Thursday night at a walkthrough practice at Hofstra University. Idzik said he was also present for meetings, a walkthrough and the pregame meal Friday, but didn't show for the game at MetLife Stadium the following night.

"Obviously, as the game went on, we still had major concerns for his health and where he was, but were unable to locate him," Ryan said.

Ryan was asked about Patterson after the game, but the coach didn't let on that there was anything wrong, saying that the Jets would see if he could play in the preseason finale at Philadelphia on Thursday.

"Quite honestly, at that point, I had no idea where he was, what his situation was and was really uncomfortable to go into details about it," Ryan said.

Patterson, who has been dealing with ankle, calf and quadriceps injuries all summer, was expected to play against the Giants but it was uncertain how much.

Both Idzik and Ryan said they had no indication that Patterson was unhappy, but thought he might have been frustrated with his injuries — although he was working his way back onto the field.

"There really wasn't any warning that we had of something like this," Idzik said. "There was nothing to indicate this kind of behavior."

Patterson was expected to start for the Jets as long as he was healthy. New York signed him to a one-year, $3 million deal in April.

"Selfishly, we want Dimitri on this football team and I think we made that clear when we signed him that we had big plans for him," Ryan said. "Obviously, we'd like to see him out here, so I'm a little shocked he wasn't here. Still feel that way, but I'm not real comfortable talking about it until we talk to Dimitri and find out what's going on."

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Idzik first learned of Patterson's absence shortly before the game, and said his first order of business was to "ensure his safety and well-being." Idzik notified Patterson through his agent that his absence was "unexcused" and said it would be handled accordingly.

Idzik added that he would rather not speculate on anything, including possible discipline, until the team had the chance to speak to Patterson directly.

"Needless to say, this situation was not expected and is highly unusual," Idzik said.

The players had a day off Saturday, but returned to the facility Sunday — and Patterson was expected to join his teammates.

Patterson's situation is the latest in what has been a brutal summer for the Jets' cornerbacks. Top cornerback Dee Milliner is recovering from a high ankle sprain, and it's uncertain whether he'll be ready in time for the regular-season opener. Third-round draft pick Dexter McDougle was lost for the season during training camp after tearing a knee ligament. A few other backup cornerbacks have also dealt with injuries throughout the summer.

The team is so thin at the position, safety Antonio Allen has started the past two preseason games at cornerback. But Allen is going through the NFL's concussion protocol after injuring his head against the Giants.

"We hope that with Dimitri everything works out and he's with us, but we're going to be full steam ahead," Ryan said. "That's the way we'll handle our business."

NOTES: Ryan announced that QB Michael Vick will start at Philadelphia against his former team Thursday night, "but don't expect him to play long." Geno Smith and the rest of the team's starters are expected to sit against the Eagles. ... Smith, announced as the Week 1 starter by Ryan on Friday, said he has always been confident, but "I caught myself second-guessing myself last year for a lot of reasons." Smith, who struggled through an up-and-down rookie year, said he always knew he could play, but had to "fight through a bunch of different things, and I had to learn as well." ... LBs Troy Davis (quad) and Ikemefuna Enemkpali (foot) didn't practice Sunday, and neither did WR Stephen Hill (illness).

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Jets cut 6, including WR Ford and CB Dowling (Dennis Waszak) Associated Press August 24, 2014

http://pro32.ap.org/article/jets-cut-6-including-wr-ford-and-cb-dowling

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. (AP) — The New York Jets released six players Sunday, including wide receiver Jacoby Ford and cornerback Ras-I Dowling.

The moves put the Jets' roster at 75 players, the maximum that teams must be at by Tuesday night.

Also cut were: tight end Colin Anderson, wide receiver Michael Campbell, defensive end Anthony Grady and fullback Chad Young.

Ford's release was a mild surprise since he was listed as the Jets' top kickoff returner. He was signed in April after having limited action last season in Oakland. Ford had three catches this preseason.

"Jacoby had been given a lot of opportunities," coach Rex Ryan said. "I still think he has a chance. ... There seemed to be some struggles."

Saalim Hakim and Clyde Gates are the top candidates to replace him as New York's kick returner.

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"We just felt that we had better options on this football team for our current situation right now," Ryan said. "For his benefit, to have an early release like this may provide him an opportunity to maybe catch on with another team. We feel that the guys that we kept, we felt better about."

Dowling, signed last season to the practice squad, dealt with foot and groin injuries during training camp.

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Jets' Saunders practices, will play at Philly (Dennis Waszak) Associated Press August 24, 2014

http://pro32.ap.org/article/jets-saunders-practices-will-play-philly

NEW YORK (AP) — Jalen Saunders is back on the field for the New York Jets.

The rookie wide receiver returned to practice on a limited basis Sunday after a recent health scare, and is expected to play in New York's final preseason game at Philadelphia on Thursday night.

Saunders, a fourth-round draft pick out of Oklahoma, wore a red no-contact jersey during practice and coach Rex Ryan thinks he'll be a full participant Monday after he was cleared by doctors.

"We feel good about that now," Ryan said of Saunders' condition. "He'll be ready to roll. Expect to see a great deal of him in this game."

The speedy Saunders is expected to play wide receiver and return punts against the Eagles. He's listed as the team's No. 1 punt returner.

Saunders had what he called a "very shocking" incident on Aug. 15, when a "medical event" caused him to drive his car off the road near the team's training facility in Florham Park, New Jersey. Saunders was hospitalized for two days and was still awaiting test results when he spoke to reporters last Wednesday.

Saunders provided few details about what happened, but acknowledged that he never lost consciousness. He didn't think he had any type of pre-existing condition when the accident occurred on his way to the facility.

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NEWSDAY

Jets trim roster to 75 (Kimberley Martin) Newsday August 24, 2014

http://www.newsday.com/sports/football/jets/jets-trim-roster-to-75-1.9138237

The Jets cut their roster down to 75 well in advance of Tuesday’s deadline.

The team released six additional players on Sunday: cornerback Ras-I Dowling, wide receivers Jacoby Ford and Michael Campbell, fullback Chad Young, tight end Colin Anderson and defensive end Anthony Grady.

NFL teams have until 4 p.m. Tuesday to trim their rosters to 75, but Jets general manager John Idzik didn’t waste any time.

Dowling, a former second-round pick of the Patriots, missed some time in training camp due to injury and was used primarily on special teams during the preseason. He also spent time on the Jets’ practice squad last year.

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Ford caught three passes for 19 yards in the Jets’ first preseason game against the Colts. But despite his exceptional speed, it appears the organization feels more comfortable (at least for now) with Clyde Gates and Saalim Hakim as their return men.

On Saturday, the Jets trimmed their roster to 81 by cutting the following seven players: Bruce Campbell, Steele Divitto, Patrick Ford, Andrew Furney, Jacob Schum, Michael Smith and Markus Zusevics.

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Dimitri Patterson returns to Jets after going AWOL (Kimberley Martin) Newsday August 24, 2014

http://www.newsday.com/sports/football/jets/dimitri-patterson-s-agent-says-cornerback-will-return-to-jets-after-going-awol-1.9138742

Jets cornerback Dimitri Patterson went AWOL, according to general manager John Idzik and coach Rex Ryan.

The announcement was made Sunday afternoon by Idzik, who delayed the start of Ryan's conference call to inform reporters that Patterson did not show up for Friday night's preseason game against the Giants and hadn't been seen or heard from directly until he met with Idzik and Ryan last night.

Idzik and other staff members tried "in vain" to reach Patterson on Friday, but to no avail. The Jets GM, who has been in "constant communication" with Patterson's agent Drew Rosenhaus, said he was told Patterson is "OK, physically" and that "he was not harmed in any way."

Saturday was an off day for players, but Patterson was a no-show at their Florham Park, New Jersey, facility Sunday morning.

Idzik said, to his knowledge, Patterson isn't involved in any legal issues. And once the team learned that the 31-year-old cornerback was OK, Idzik made it clear that "his absence was unexcused and will be handled accordingly."

Idzik said it was "baffling" that Patterson would disappear without warning because he's "been very engaged. He's been helpful as a vet. There really wasn't any warning. There was nothing to indicate this kind of behavior."

The 10-year veteran signed as a free agent with the Jets this offseason and was expected to be the replacement for Antonio Cromartie, who signed with Arizona. But Patterson has been slowed by quadriceps, calf and foot injuries and has been limited in practice since playing in their preseason opener against the Colts.

Patterson attended the Jets' walk-through practice and "Family Night" Thursday at Hofstra. He was also at the Friday meetings, walk-through and the pregame at their practice facility. But he was a no-show that night for the Giants game at MetLife Stadium.

The cornerback was announced as a late scratch before the game, and when asked about Patterson in his postgame news conference, Ryan said: "He's been nursing a bunch of injuries and things like that. Obviously, he did not play today. We'll see if he can play Thursday against Philly."

The Jets' secondary was the biggest question mark on the roster long before Dee Milliner suffered a high ankle sprain and third-rounder Dexter McDougle tore his ACL on the same day in practice.

But because of injuries, the Jets chose to start third-year safety Antonio Allen at cornerback the past two preseason games.

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And with the season opener less than two weeks away, the Jets still have questions about the unit -- and now Patterson.

Said Idzik: "I'd like to talk to him so we could figure out what's behind it."

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Geno Smith on rookie season: I second-guessed myself too much (Kimberley Martin) Newsday August 24, 2014

http://www.newsday.com/sports/football/jets/geno-smith-on-rookie-season-i-second-guessed-myself-too-much-1.9139795

Geno Smith has always been confident, but he admitted Sunday that his rookie year was anything but easy.

"I found myself second-guessing myself last year for a lot of reasons and it wasn't because I didn't feel as though I could play," he said. "It was a lot of things that happened and I had to fight through a bunch of different things and I had to learn as well."

Despite Smith's erratic play, the Jets finished 8-8. But his teammates are excited about the progress he's made and like his confidence. "He's showing [that he won't be] rattled in pressure situations," Jeremy Kerley said.

Said Calvin Pace: "To me, everything he's done, he looks confident in doing it . . . He has moved the ball and I think that confidence has helped the offense start these games fast and get the ball moving."

And Smith can sense they trust him more now, too.

"You can only inspire the guys and you can only be that leader if you're on top of your game and you know what you're doing," he said. "I appreciate the fact that they've always stuck with me and have always been confident in me because they've seen the way I can bounce back from a tough game."

Vick to start vs. Philly

Rex Ryan said backup Michael Vick will start against his former team, the Eagles, in Thursday night's preseason finale. "But don't expect him to play long," he said. Following his 18-month prison sentence for his role in a dogfighting operation, Vick signed with Philly in 2009 and spent five seasons there.

Roster at 75

The Jets cut their roster down to 75 players well in advance of Tuesday's 4 p.m. deadline by releasing Jacoby Ford, Ras-I Dowling, Michael Campbell, Chad Young, Colin Anderson and Anthony Grady were released. "Jacoby had been given a lot of opportunities [but] there seemed to be some struggles," Ryan said. "We just felt we had better options on this football team."

Saalim Hakim will be the Jets' return man, he said.

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THE RECORD

Jets notes: Rookie receiver Jalen Saunders returns to practice (J.P. Pelzman) The Record August 25, 2014

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http://www.northjersey.com/sports/football/jets-notes-rookie-receiver-jalen-saunders-returns-to-practice-1.1075293

Saunders returns

Rookie wide receiver Jalen Saunders returned to practice Sunday for the Jets, nine days after suffering what was termed a "medical event" while driving his car.

Saunders was hospitalized for two-plus days with an undisclosed condition before returning to the Jets' complex Monday. He caught passes during warm-ups before the game against the Giants on Friday, although he didn't play. Coach Rex Ryan said Sunday he expects Saunders to play at Philadelphia in the preseason finale Thursday.

"We feel good about that now," Ryan said on a conference call when asked about Saunders' condition. "He'll be ready to roll. Expect to see a great deal of him in this game."

The fourth-round pick from Oklahoma practiced Sunday in a red no-contact jersey, but Ryan said he expects him to be able to practice full today.

Ford released

The Jets released veteran wideout and kick returner Jacoby Ford and waived five other players to get down to the NFL roster limit of 75 players, two days before the mandatory deadline of Tuesday at 4 p.m. The most notable of the other cuts is former New England cornerback Ras-I Dowling, whom coach Ryan talked up during the spring.

Ford, signed as a free agent in April, had three kickoff returns for a 23-yard average in the preseason. Speedster Saalim Hakim returned kickoffs against Big Blue, and he and Clyde Gates likely are battling for that spot.

Briefs

The other players waived are TE Colin Anderson, WR Mike Campbell, FB Chad Young and DE Anthony Grady. … Ryan said Michael Vick will start at QB against the Eagles, but said, "Don't expect him to play long." Vick likely will be relieved by Matt Simms and Tajh Boyd. Starter Geno Smith will rest.

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Jets cornerback Dimitri Patterson goes AWOL (J.P. Pelzman) The Record August 24, 2014

http://www.northjersey.com/news/jets-cornerback-dimitri-patterson-goes-awol-1.1072993

Jets cornerback Dimitri Patterson has left the team without permission, general manager John Idzik revealed Sunday. It is unclear why the ninth-year veteran cornerback left or whether he will return. However, Idzik said they have been told by Patterson’s representatives that he is OK physically.

Idzik said on a conference call that neither he nor coach Rex Ryan has spoken to Patterson since Friday. Patterson, who has been bothered by calf, ankle and guadriceps injuries, was with the the team earlier in the day but never reported to MetLife Stadium for the preseason game against the Giants.

Idzik called Patterson’s absence “unexpected and highly unusual,” adding, “we really don’t wish to speculate on anything until we’ve had a chance to speak to him directly.”

Idzik said the Jets didn’t find out until Saturday that Patterson was OK, and they still have no idea why he is AWOL.

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Patterson, who was signed to a one-year, $3 million contract in April, could be fined and/or placed on the reserve/left team list by the Jets, although Idzik chose not to speculate on what the organization will do.

“I don’t want to go too far down the line,” he said. “I’d like to talk to [Patterson] so we can figure out what’s behind it.”

Patterson didn’t play against Cincinnati on Aug. 16 and Idzik indicated it was “uncertain” if he would have played against the Giants.

Idzik said that despite his injuries, Patterson had been “very engaged” and had been helping the younger cornerbacks on the team.

“That’s what’s really baffling,” the GM said. “There really wasn’t any warning that we had something like this. There was nothing to indicate this kind of behavior.”

The Jets already have been decimated at cornerback, with three players at the position currently out with injuries.

“I’m a little shocked that he wasn’t here and still feel that way,” coach Rex Ryan said. “You just go on. You got about your business and you coach the guys that are here.

“We want Dimitri on this football team,” Ryan added. “We made that clear when we signed him. … We hope that everything works out.”

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STAR-LEDGER

Dimitri Patterson going AWOL just latest, most dramatic twist for Jets' tumultuous CB spot (Darryl Slater) Star Ledger August 24, 2014

http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2014/08/dimitri_patterson_going_awol_just_the_latest_and_most_dramatic_twist_for_jets_tumultuous_cornerback.html

The final weekend of the Jets’ preseason brought drama fitting of the team’s most tumultuous position for months now – cornerback.

Despite all the Jets have been through with the position – from a high-profile cut to hand-wringing during free agency to injuries to more injuries – nothing compared to what occurred Friday night, when presumptive starting cornerback Dimitri Patterson did not show up for a preseason game against the Giants.

Patterson, 31, was present for meetings, a walk-through and the pregame meal Friday. But when the team convened at MetLife Stadium, he was nowhere to be found – and had given the Jets no excuse for his absence. The Jets were off Saturday. When they returned to their facility in Florham Park for Sunday’s practice, Patterson was again absent.

John Idzik, the Jets’ general manager, held a teleconference with reporters Sunday to announce Patterson had gone AWOL. He and coach Rex Ryan seemed, at once, perplexed and irritated, especially since they had received word Saturday from Patterson’s agent, Drew Rosenhaus, that Patterson was accounted for and unharmed.

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Rosenhaus said after the teleconference that Patterson would return to the Jets later Sunday, but he declined to say why Patterson disappeared. Idzik said the Jets don’t believe Patterson, who is in his first year with the team, got in trouble with the law.

On Sunday evening, the Jets announced that Idzik and Rex Ryan had met with Patterson, but offered no other details about the meeting.

The Jets practice Monday. Even if Patterson shows up, he has a lot of questions to answer about what happened Friday. Idzik said “nobody knew” the reason Patterson no-showed – not even Rosenhaus, at least not as of Idzik’s conversation with the agent Saturday.

Idzik has worked in NFL front offices since 1993. He said an incident like this is unprecedented in his career.

“I’ve experienced some pretty strange events,” he said. “But not quite like this one.”

Both he and Ryan said they wanted to speak directly with Patterson before passing complete judgment on his actions. Idzik did mention, during his teleconference, “the potential ramifications” of going AWOL, though he declined to say if he told Patterson he would be fined.

“Your knee-jerk reaction is: ‘You’re not here with your team. You’re not here for your team,’” Idzik said. “But we have to understand the reason why. What’s going through his mind to take such a drastic step?”

Patterson failing to show up for Friday’s game was entirely unforeseen, according to Idzik and Ryan. Patterson had been dealing with leg injuries. But he had returned to practice. The Jets planned to play him against the Giants, easing him back into action, though Ryan said Thursday that he was going to start Antonio Allen and Darrin Walls at corner in the game.

Still, Ryan said he sensed “not one bit” of discontent from Patterson about his standing on the team. The Jets have made it clear since they signed Patterson during the offseason that he was likely to start opposite Dee Milliner. During interviews, as recently as last week, Patterson expressed optimism about getting back on the field, and about his role.

“That’s what’s really baffling,” Idzik said. “Dimitri has been very engaged and he’s been very attentive in meetings. There was nothing that indicated this kind of behavior.”

At first, Ryan did not think anything was wrong when Patterson had yet to arrive before Friday’s game. Ryan said players are sometimes a few minutes late if they get caught in traffic. Then a few minutes dragged on, and Patterson never showed.

“I’m a little shocked that he wasn’t here, and still feel that way,” Ryan said.

Ryan and Idzik grew concerned that something might have happened to Patterson. The Jets tried to call Patterson, but he did not respond. Then Idzik reached out to Rosenhaus.

“All of us were trying in vain on Friday to locate Dimitri and figure out what was going on,” Idzik said.

After Idzik learned Saturday that Patterson was safe, “I notified him that his absence is unexcused and it will be handled accordingly,” Idzik said.

The Jets are just trying to get a grasp on their cornerback situation, period. It has basically been a disaster since they traded Darrelle Revis to Tampa Bay after the 2012 season.

Milliner struggled last year as a rookie. Veteran Antonio Cromartie sputtered while fighting a nagging hip injury. The Jets finished 22nd in the NFL in passing defense, after ranking second in 2012. The Jets cut Cromartie in the offseason, saving $9.5 million in salary cap space. They did not replace him with an elite cornerback, but rather, with Patterson, now on his seventh team in 10 seasons.

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Injuries limited Patterson to 15 games combined over the past two seasons. While he dealt with nagging quadriceps, ankle and calf injuries this month, the Jets’ cornerbacks sustained more serious attrition. Rookie Dexter McDougle, a likely backup, was lost for the season to a knee injury. Milliner suffered a high ankle sprain, putting his status in doubt for the Sept. 7 opener against the Raiders, two weeks from Sunday.

The Jets moved Antonio Allen from safety to corner after Milliner’s injury, but now he is also hurt, having sustained concussion against the Giants. The Jets’ top fully healthy corners are Darrin Walls, Ellis Lankster, slot corner Kyle Wilson and recent free agent pickup LeQuan Lewis. Starting any of them in the opener could be perilous.

Everybody questioned if the Jets did enough this offseason to fix their cornerback situation. With this latest and most dramatic turn, the position appears as messy as ever.

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Jets, Giants defenders explain how they are adjusting to NFL's emphasis on downfield contact (Darryl Slater) Star Ledger August 24, 2014

http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2014/08/jets_giants_defenders_explain_how_they_are_adjusting_to_nfls_emphasis_on_contact_past_five_yards.html

Dennis Thurman, the Jets’ defensive coordinator, did not play in the NFL all that long ago. Thurman was a cornerback and safety for the Cowboys and Cardinals from 1978-86. So it’s not like he played in an era of leather helmets.

But as Thurman looks at the passing game in today’s NFL – on both sides of the ball – he said his playing days seem “prehistoric” by comparison.

“They threw the ball 25, 30 times in a game, you felt like it was a lot,” Thurman said. “But they’re throwing that in a half now.”

Defensive backs in those days were technically not allowed to touch receivers past five yards down the field, but the league had a “liberal” enforcement of the rule, Thurman said.

Now, the NFL defensive backs who succeeded Thurman – including the players he coaches – are being tested even more, by both opposing passing offenses and the league’s stricter enforcement this year of illegal contact past five yards.

A technically sloppy cornerback can no longer rely on physically dominating a receiver, as he could at times when Thurman played.

“The premium on technique and fundamentals and being able to do it play after play after play – and the consistency of that – is much more important than it was back then,” Thurman said.

As the NFL focuses on eliminating contact by defenders past five yards, flags are flying at a stunning rate. According to Pro Football Talk, in 65 preseason games last season, there were 18 illegal contact flags and 38 for defensive holding. Through 39 games this year, entering Saturday, there were 66 flags for illegal contact and 119 for defensive holding.

The Jets’ three games haven’t produced a ton of these flags – a good sign for a pass defense that ranked 22nd in the NFL last year. There were none in Jets-Bengals. In Jets-Colts, there were four defensive holding calls (three on the Jets). In Jets-Giants, there was one illegal contact flag, and two for defensive holding, but all three were on the Giants.

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The Giants are coming off a 2013 season in which they ranked 10th in the NFL in passing defense. Their first three preseason games, before they played the Jets, saw the Giants accumulate a total of six defensive holding and two illegal contact penalties. The Giants' opponents, in those games, were called for one defensive holding penalty and six for illegal contact penalties.

If this penalty pace across the league continues, the NFL will see about a six-fold increase in illegal contact and defensive holding this preseason.

These flags don’t stem from a new rule, per se. The NFL is simply enforcing – much more strictly – the existing rule about contact past five yards. Moreover, there is a chance the rule is “a little less enforced” once the regular season begins, said Jets receiver Greg Salas.

The NFL does not want games extended too much longer than their usual three hours by dozens of penalty flags. Excess stoppages could make games tedious. Preseason games this year have lasted about five minutes longer than last year, according to The Washington Post.

"It’s going to slow the games down a lot, especially if teams are throwing the ball 30 or 40 times a game," said Walter Thurmond, the Giants’ most physical cornerback. "The game is already slowing down now because of how much they’re throwing the ball and getting away from the run.”

Players expected this, to some degree. NFL officials make yearly rounds at training camps, meeting with players and letting them know about rule changes and emphasis points like this.

Some observers believe this particular emphasis point is a response to the physical style the Seahawks’ secondary used on its way to a Super Bowl championship. Seattle, in the Super Bowl, limited Denver’s record-setting offense to 279 passing yards, the Broncos’ fourth-fewest of the season.

While Salas said receivers “love” the preseason emphasis on the five-yard rule, they recognize how this situation could get out of control.

“You don’t want to see it over-penalized where it’s ridiculous,” Salas said. “You want it to be good competition. We’ll see how it goes during the regular season.”

Even though per-game scoring in the NFL set an all-time record last season, with an average of 46.8 points for both teams, Salas said he experienced moments when officials let the five-yard rule slide.

When Salas, who played in eight games last year, alerted an official that a defensive back held him, the official responded by saying Salas was on the back side of the quarterback’s route progression – meaning he was not the first receiving option on the play. In short, the ball likely was not going to be thrown in his direction anyway.

“How is the ref supposed to know if we’re on the back side or not?” Salas said. “Like, how do you know the ball is not supposed to go to me?”

Even if he wasn’t the first option on the play, Salas said “that is beside the point,” since a penalty still occurred.

But Salas does not have any big-picture complaints about the state of today’s NFL. Really, no offensive player should.

“I think it is offense friendly,” he said. “I think we want to see points scored and games be high energy, high paced. So I think that favors the offense a little bit.”

The Jets’ defenders are obviously less pleased about this trend. When safety Dawan Landry entered the league in 2006, defensive backs could bump a receiver while running with him. Covering now requires

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“more work,” Landry said. Slot cornerback Kyle Wilson was a first-round draft pick in 2010, and “since I got here, it’s been harder to play defense pretty much every single year,” he said.

Weak-side linebacker Demario Davis has only been in the NFL since 2012 – and he is already exasperated with the changes he has experienced.

“I don’t know what else they want us to do,” he said. “Now, they’re throwing penalties every time a DB puts his hand on the shirt of a receiver, not even grabbing it. As defensive players, we have to adjust, but I wish they would make more penalties that worked in our favor. There are push-offs (by receivers) happening every play. It seems like they’re just trying to make it to where offenses can score as many points as they can.”

How, then, do defensive backs adjust to the new normal?

Usually, a defensive back likes to keep a hand on a receiver during his route, “to know where he’s at,” said rookie safety Calvin Pryor. Now, a defensive back’s awareness and eyes become more important, because “you just have to read your receiver more,” by watching his hips to determine where he might break to, said Landry.

“If you have bad technique, you’ll probably be getting flagged a lot,” Wilson said.

Thurmond, the Giants' cornerback, mostly downplayed the impact of the increased emphasis on downfield contact, saying, "It's not going to be a big deal to adjust."

The new emphasis on contact past five yards also underscores the importance of a cornerback’s preparation, so he can assess a formation before the snap and more accurately determine where his receiver might run. With some of a corner’s physical reaction power taken away, his mental anticipation becomes all the more critical.

“That’s what’s going to help me,” said Jets corner Dimitri Patterson. “Now, you’re going to have to be able to play the game within the game. You’re not just going to be able to get out there and say, ‘Hey, I didn’t really watch that much tape, but I know I’m better than this guy.’ Those days are coming to an end.”

If the NFL has changed for good, could this lead to an increased value placed on a cornerback prospect’s speed, as opposed to his physicality? A corner can still bump and jam a receiver within the first five yards. After that, “you’re basically running with him, because there’s not much else you’re going to be able to do,” Patterson said.

But really, Thurman said, the best NFL cornerbacks have never covered receivers with simply their hands anyway.

“In this league or in high school football, if you understand how to cover a receiver, you cover them with your eyes and your feet,” Thurman said. “After five yards, it’s my ability to watch him and simulate his movement. If I can do that, I can cover in the National Football League. That’s what we’re teaching. We’re not worried about the rule. If we do it the way we’re taught, we’ll be OK.”

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Jalen Saunders, after medical incident, returns to Jets practice, will play 'a great deal' vs. Eagles (Darryl Slater) Star Ledger August 24, 2014

http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2014/08/jalen_saunders_after_medical_incident_returns_to_jets_practice_will_play_a_great_deal_vs_eagles_says.html

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The Jets’ preseason finale, Thursday at the Eagles, probably won’t be such a snoozer after all.

There are a couple intriguing storylines at play entering the game. Of course, as the Jets begin their final week of the preseason, the most notable issue is the status of AWOL cornerback Dimitri Patterson. He will return to the team Sunday, according to his agent, Drew Rosenhaus.

But there is also the matter of Jets backup quarterback Michael Vick playing on Thursday, in a homecoming game of sorts, since he previously played for the Eagles. Jets coach Rex Ryan said Sunday that Vick would start Thursday, but wouldn’t remain in the game for long.

Also Sunday, Ryan said the Jets are on the verge of getting rookie wide receiver Jalen Saunders back to full participation. Saunders experienced a medical incident while driving his car on Aug. 15, the day before the Jets’ second preseason game, at the Bengals. Saunders did not play in that game, or in Friday’s game against the Giants. Nor had he practiced since the incident.

Saunders spoke to reporters about his medical episode, but shed little light on what caused it or what occurred during it. Ryan had said he was not sure when Saunders would be able to return to football activities.

But as it turned out, Saunders returned Sunday – the Jets’ first practice since they played the Giants. Saunders wore a red (non-contact) jersey Sunday. He likely will shed that jersey Monday, Ryan said.

Saunders, whom the Jets drafted out of Oklahoma in the fourth round, was listed as their first-team punt returner before his medical incident. Starting slot receiver Jeremy Kerley took over those duties in Saunders’s absence. Kerley has returned 61 punts in his three-year career.

Starters don’t play in the final preseason game, so don’t expect to see Kerley. But Saunders will get a bunch of action against the Eagles, since doctors have cleared him to resume practicing and playing.

“They just cleared him, so we feel good about that now,” Ryan said of Saunders’s medical situation. “He’ll be ready to roll. Expect to see a great deal of him in this game against Philly on Thursday night as a receiver, as well as a punt returner.”

As Saunders returned Sunday, the following players were absent from practice: safety/cornerback Antonio Allen (sustained a concussion against the Giants), rookie rush linebacker IK Enemkpali (missed the Giants game with a foot injury), cornerback Dee Milliner (high ankle sprain), reserve linebacker Troy Davis (quad) and wide receiver Stephen Hill (illness).

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Michael Vick will start vs. Eagles, but won't play for long, says Rex Ryan (Darryl Slater) Star Ledger August 24, 2014

http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2014/08/michael_vick_will_start_vs_eagles_but_wont_play_for_long_says_rex_ryan.html

In an announcement that got lost in the shuffle of Sunday’s news that Jets cornerback Dimitri Patterson no-showed for Friday’s game against the Giants, Jets coach Rex Ryan said quarterback Michael Vick will indeed start Thursday at Philadelphia.

(The latest on Patterson is that he will return to the team Sunday, according to his agent, Drew Rosenhaus.)

“Vick will start at quarterback, but don’t expect him to play long,” Ryan said Sunday.

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It is the Jets’ fourth and final preseason game. Starters almost never play in the preseason finale. Vick is going to be the Jets’ backup quarterback, behind Geno Smith, at least for Week 1. So the Jets obviously don’t want him to get hurt in a meaningless game.

But this isn’t just any preseason finale. The Jets signed Vick in free agency after last season. His previous employer was the Eagles. Vick spent five seasons with them and revived his NFL career, after going to prison for running a dog-fighting ring – which sidelined him for two seasons.

Vick, 34, played in 54 games with the Eagles and started 42, before they opted for Nick Foles as their starting quarterback last season.

The Jets and Eagles essentially swapped backup quarterbacks in the offseason. The Jets cut Mark Sanchez, their former starter, who missed all of last year with a shoulder injury. The Eagles signed him to be Foles’s understudy.

But Eagles coach Chip Kelly has already said Sanchez won’t play Thursday. Matt Barkley will get the start against the Jets.

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NEW YORK POST

Jets can’t af-Ford struggling Jacoby (Brian Costello) New York Post August 25, 2014

http://nypost.com/2014/08/24/jets-cant-af-ford-struggling-jacoby/

The Jets made their initial cuts over the weekend and wide receiver Jacoby Ford was the most surprising among them.

The team signed Ford in April to a one-year deal, hoping he could be their kick returner. But Ford had a shaky preseason. He had three catches for 19 yards and never showed the speed that made him such a dangerous return man with the Raiders. A foot injury two years ago had slowed Ford considerably.

“Jacoby had been given a lot of opportunities,” Rex Ryan said. “I still think he has a chance. He had an injury before … and there seemed to be some struggles. … We felt we have better options on this football team for our current situation right now. For his benefit, to have an early release like this might provide an opportunity to catch on with another team. We feel that the guys that we kept, we felt better about.”

Ryan said Saalim Hakim is currently the leading candidate to be the team’s kickoff returner. Clyde Gates also can do it.

The Jets also released cornerback Ras-I Dowling, a former second-round pick of the Patriots. Dowling had a strong spring, but spent much of training camp sidelined with injuries. The other cuts were wide receiver Michael Campbell, tight end Colin Anderson, fullback Chad Young and defensive end Anthony Grady.

Their roster is at 75 now. They have to cut the roster to 53 by 4 p.m. Saturday.

WR/PR Jalen Saunders returned to the practice field Sunday for the first time since driving off the road after experiencing an undisclosed medical problem. Saunders was not permitted to participate in contact drills, but Ryan said he should be cleared for contact Monday.

Ryan said Saunders will play Thursday against the Eagles.

“He’ll be ready to roll,” Ryan said. “I expect to see a great deal of him in this game in Philly Thursday night as a receiver as well as punt returner.”

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The starters generally don’t play in the final preseason game, and even some key backups sit. Ryan said Michael Vick will start at quarterback against his former team, but won’t play long. It would not be surprising if Ryan pulls Vick after one play so he can get an ovation from the Philadelphia fans. … CB Antonio Allen (concussion), WR Stephen Hill (illness), CB Dee Milliner (ankle), LB IK Enemkpali (foot) and LB Troy Davis (quad) did not practice Sunday.

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Jets cut speed-demon Jacoby Ford, 5 others (Brian Costello) New York Post August 24, 2014

http://nypost.com/2014/08/24/jets-cut-speed-demon-jacoby-ford-5-others/

The Jets reduced their roster to 75 on Sunday by cutting six players, the most notable being wide receiver and kick returner Jacoby Ford.

Ford signed a one-year deal with the Jets in March after leaving the Raiders, but the speedster had a disappointing preseason. He had just three catches for 19 yards in the three games.

In Friday’s loss to the Giants, he muffed a punt while filling in for sidelined rookie Jalen Saunders. The top two candidates to be the team’s kickoff returner are now Clyde Gates and Saalim Hakim.

The Jets also released cornerback Ras-I Dowling, a former second-round pick of the Patriots. Dowling had a strong spring, but spent much of training camp sidelined with injuries. The other cuts were wide receiver Michael Campbell, tight end Colin Anderson, fullback Chad Young and defensive end Anthony Grady.

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After being AWOL 2 days, Jets CB to return to team (Brian Costello) New York Post August 24, 2014

http://nypost.com/2014/08/24/jets-have-no-idea-where-cb-dimitri-patterson-is/

The Jets’ situation at cornerback took an odd twist Sunday when general manager John Idzik revealed Dimitri Patterson did not show up for Friday’s game with the Giants and the team has been unable to reach him.

But according to Patterson’s agent, Drew Rosenhaus, the defensive back was expected to return to the Jets on Sunday, still without an explanation of his missed time.

Patterson was projected to be a starter for the Jets. He has been dealing with leg injuries, but the team planned on playing him against the Giants. On Friday, he attended the team meetings, walk-through and pregame meal at their Florham Park headquarters, but never showed up to MetLife Stadium.

Idzik and other members of the Jets staff unsuccessfully tried to reach Patterson on Friday night. It was not until Saturday the Jets learned Patterson is physically OK through someone who spoke to him. Patterson was absent when the team reconvened for practice Sunday.

Idzik said Patterson gave the team no indication he was unhappy.

“That’s what’s really baffling,” Idzik said on a conference call with reporters. “Dimitri has been very engaged. He’s been very attentive in meetings. We felt he was on the upswing in rehabbing his injuries. He’s been helpful as a veteran to our young guys. … There really wasn’t any warning. There was nothing to indicate this kind of behavior.”

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Idzik said he has informed Rosenhaus that the absence is unexcused and it will be dealt with. Idzik said he does not want to speculate on what action the Jets will take until he speaks to Patterson directly.

“I’d like to talk to him so we can figure out what’s behind it,” Idzik said.

This situation further complicates the Jets’ woes at cornerback. Dee Milliner, the other projected starter, has a high ankle sprain that could keep him out of the season opener on Sept. 7. Antonio Allen, who had been moved from safety to corner two weeks ago, suffered a concussion in Friday’s game.

At the moment, the Jets’ top four available corners are Kyle Wilson, Darrin Walls, Ellis Lankster and LeQuan Lewis.

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NEW YORK DAILY NEWS

Dimitri Patterson to return to Jets after 'unexcused' absence (Seth Walder) New York Daily News August 24, 2014

http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/football/jets/jets-cb-dimitri-patterson-missing-team-game-giants-article-1.1915137

Jets cornerback Dimitri Patterson is planning to return to the Jets on Sunday, according to his agent Drew Rosenhaus, after the cornerback failed to show up for the team’s preseason game against the Giants on Friday and had not communicated since.

General manager John Idzik, speaking before it was known that Patterson would return later Sunday, said the team knew Patterson was safe by speaking with his agent but still did not know why the cornerback failed to report to the game.

“Once we learned that Dimitri was OK...we notified him that has absence was unexcused and will be handled accordingly,” Idzik said, clarifying later that he spoken to Rosenhaus and not the cornerback himself.

Patterson did not show up at the team’s facility Sunday for practice. Head coach Rex Ryan, also speaking before it was known that Patterson would return, said he had left messages for Patterson which went gone unanswered.

“I’d like to talk to him so that we can figure out what’s behind it,” Idzik said. “What’s going through his mind to take such a drastic step?”

Ryan said there was no indication that Patterson was unhappy or dissatisfied with anything, other than his own injuries (calf/ankle/quad) that he was recovering from. Idzik said the plan had been to ease Patterson back into Friday’s game.

Idzik called the situation “very unusual” and “baffling.”

Patterson was with the team for meetings and a pre-game meal on Friday but did not show at the stadium, according to the GM. At that point “All of us were trying in vain on Friday to locate Dimitri and figure out what was going on,” Idzik said. The GM said they learned on Saturday that Patterson was OK.

Idzik declined to speculate on potential discipline for Patterson beyond saying, “Suffice it to say that it’s unexcused. I trust that the agent and therefore the player know the potential ramifications.”

The Jets were already decimated at cornerback after injuries hit Dee Milliner (high ankle sprain), Dexter McDougle (torn ACL) and Antonio Allen (concussion).

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THE WALL STREET JOURNAL

Reporter's Notebook: Dimitri Patterson to Rejoin Jets (Stu Woo) Wall Street Journal August 25, 2014

http://online.wsj.com/articles/dimitri-patterson-to-rejoin-jets-1408922199?tesla=y&mod=WSJ_NY_Sports_LEFTTopStories&mg=reno64-wsj&url=http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970203523204580112302014462986.html?mod=WSJ_NY_Sports_LEFTTopStories

Jets cornerback Dimitri Patterson skipped Friday's preseason game without telling the team, general manager John Idzik said Sunday.

In an unexpected conference call with reporters, Idzik said he spoke with Patterson's agent, Drew Rosenhaus, and that the cornerback is safe.

"This situation was not expected and is highly unusual," Idzik said.

Patterson had been projected to start at cornerback, but missed much of training camp with quadriceps, calf and foot injuries. If healthy, he would be the top cornerback on a team currently missing Dee Milliner, who is out indefinitely with a high-ankle sprain, and rookie Dexter McDougle, who will miss the year with a torn knee ligament.

Idzik and head coach Rex Ryan said they last saw Patterson, who is expected to return to practice Monday, at Friday's pregame meeting and meals. Idzik declined to talk about potential discipline, saying he first wanted to speak with Patterson.

"The first thought that comes to mind is how can we help our player?" Idzik said. "What's going through his mind to take such a drastic step?"

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ESPN NEW YORK

Jets cut Jacoby Ford, 5 others (Rich Cimini) ESPN New York August 24, 2014

http://espn.go.com/new-york/nfl/story/_/id/11401784/new-york-jets-cut-jacoby-ford?ex_cid=espnapi_public

The New York Jets pared their roster to 75 players on Sunday by releasing six, including wide receiver/kickoff returner Jacoby Ford.

The former Oakland Raiders speedster signed a one-year contract in March with the hope of winning a spot on a receiving corps in transition, but he disappointed in the preseason -- three catches for 19 yards in three games.

With rookie punt returner Jalen Saunders out indefinitely with an undisclosed medical issue, Ford got a chance to return punts -- but he had a muff Friday night against the New York Giants.

The Jets' fallback option at punt returner is Jeremy Kerley, who has extensive experience. Clyde Gates becomes the leading candidate at kickoff returner.

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The team also released cornerback Ras-I Dowling, a former second-round pick of the New England Patriots. Others released were wide receiver Michael Campbell, tight end Colin Anderson, fullback Chad Young and defensive end Anthony Grady.

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Dimitri Patterson set to rejoin Jets (Rich Cimini) ESPN New York August 24, 2014

http://espn.go.com/new-york/nfl/story/_/id/11402600/new-york-jets-dimitri-patterson-set-rejoin-team?ex_cid=espnapi_public

AWOL for nearly 48 hours, New York Jets cornerback Dimitri Patterson is planning to rejoin the team later Sunday, his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, confirmed.

Word of his anticipated return came almost two hours after general manager John Idzik announced that Patterson didn't show up for Friday night's game and couldn't be reached or located. Idzik termed it an "unexcused" absence, saying he still hadn't talked to Patterson. The only thing the Jets knew was that he was safe and unharmed, Idzik said.

Rosenhaus declined to comment on the reason for Patterson's disappearance. The Jets haven't commented since word leaked of his imminent return.

This is a strange and mysterious twist for a team dealing with adversity at the cornerback position. Right now, their most experienced healthy corner is Kyle Wilson, who plays the slot. Patterson, too, is banged up, recovering from calf, ankle and quadriceps injuries.

Idzik hinted that Patterson could be disciplined, but he declined to speculate on whether the absence would result in a fine or impact his standing on the team. Idzik said he needed to speak with Patterson before making that determination. He wanted to find out why the well-traveled veteran "would take such a drastic step."

On Friday, Patterson attended meetings, the walk through and the pre-game meal, but he never showed up at MetLife Stadium. Because of his injuries, he was questionable to play. At first, they thought he may have been stuck in traffic. Team officials spent the night trying to track him down, making numerous phone calls.

"Without putting an APB out, you're trying everything you can," Jets coach Rex Ryan said. "You're trying all the numbers you have, you name it. ... Obviously, as the game wore on, we still had a major concern."

It wasn't until Saturday that Idzik confirmed that Patterson was okay, but the team still didn't know his whereabouts. The players were off Saturday. On Sunday, he didn't show up for practice.

Idzik doesn't believe it was a legal matter.

"Not to my knowledge," he said. "We have a very cursory knowledge of what's going on. That's the extent of it. We know he's okay and haven't been able to communicate with him. That's it in a nut shell."

One teammate said it was odd that Patterson was in uniform but didn't participate in an open practice last Thursday night at Hofstra. At the time, Ryan was non-committal on whether he expected him to play against the Giants.

Patterson came to the Jets with a reputation for being injury prone, and he missed a good chunk of training camp with various ailments. From 2011 to 2013, he missed 33 games due to injuries. On Sunday, an

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acquaintance wondered if Patterson, 31, is thinking about retirement, fearing his body could be breaking down.

Idzik said he never got the impression that Patterson is unhappy.

"No, that's what's really baffling," said Idzik, claiming Patterson has been engaged in meetings.

The Jets can't afford to lose another body at cornerback. Top corner Dee Milliner (high-ankle sprain) is a question mark for the season opener, Antonio Allen suffered a concussion Friday night and rookie Dexter McDougle suffered a season-ending knee injury in training camp.

Right now, their starting corners would be Darrin Walls and LeQuan Lewis, both former undrafted free agents.

After failing to land any of the marquee cornerbacks in free agency, fueling a torrent of criticism, the Jets signed Patterson to a one-year, $3 million contract to replace Antonio Cromartie, whom they released. Ryan said they've always had "big plans" for Patterson, indicating he'd be a likely starter.

Predictably, the Jets downplayed the dire situation.

"Oh, shoot, you just go on," Ryan said. "You go about your business. You coach the guys that are here and the guys that are healthy. We won't look back, regardless. We hope everything works out and he's with us, but we're going to be full-steam ahead and that's the way we'll handle our biz."

Patterson reported to training camp full of confidence, promising he'd solve the cornerback concerns.

"Fans like high profiles. I don't have a high profile, but my film is legit," he said at the time. "When the season comes, I'll show everyone why I've been in the league so long."

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NJ.COM

Jets cornerback Dimitri Patterson AWOL since before Friday's game (Dom Cosentino) NJ.com August 24, 2014

http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2014/08/jets_cornerback_dimitri_patterson_awol_since_before_fridays_game.html

Jets cornerback Dimitri Patterson did not show for Friday's preseason game against the Giants and has not communicated directly with the team since then, general manager John Idzik and head coach Rex Ryan said Sunday.

Patterson, who hasn't played since the preseason opener two weeks ago because of injuries to his calf, quad, and ankle, also did not show for Sunday's practice after the team had a day off Saturday. The 31-year-old journeyman is a projected starter at a position that already was a major concern heading into this season.

Patterson's agent, Drew Rosenhaus, said Patterson would report back to the team later Sunday. Rosenhaus declined to comment further.

Ryan was scheduled to have a conference call with reporters Sunday. But before the call began, Idzik came on and dropped the bombshell news about Patterson's unexcused absence.

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"I'd like to speak to Dimitri," Idzik said. "Again, I don’t want to speculate on anything until I have a direct conversation with anyone, much less the player, just to figure out what’s going on. So we really don’t know. We can only surmise and we don’t want to speculate."

Idzik said the team only learned on Saturday through Rosenhaus that Patterson was OK physically. But beyond that, neither Idzik nor Ryan has heard from Patterson, and both said they were given no warning or indication as to why Patterson would stop coming to work.

Idzik did say Patterson was present for meetings, a walk-through, and the team's pre-game meal Friday. Patterson was also on-hand for Thursday's Family Night practice at Hofstra University. But he never made it to MetLife Stadium for Friday's game and has been missing ever since.

After the team realized Patterson hadn't shown, Idzik said he was "in constant communication" with Rosenhaus, who would only confirm to the Jets that Patterson's physical health was sound.

Idzik also said that, to the best of his knowledge, Patterson was not in any legal trouble.

Ryan admitted he was "shocked" that Patterson has been absent this long without any explanation.

"I still feel that way," Ryan said. "I'm not real comfortable talking about it until we talk to Dimitri and find out what's going on."

Patterson had played for six other teams in nine previous NFL seasons. The Jets this offseason signed him to a one-year contract that, with incentives, could push his salary to $3 million.

Idzik said the team would "handle" the matter internally but declined to say whether Patterson would be cut or fined.

"I’d like to talk to him so that we can figure out what’s behind it," Idzik said. "Really, the first thought that comes to mind is: How can we help our player, and what’s going through his mind to take such a drastic step? Of course, we’ll have contingency plans along the way."

Even before Patterson stopped coming to work, the cornerback situation was already a giant headache for the Jets. Dee Milliner—the team's other projected starter—suffered a high ankle sprain on Aug. 10; his status for the Sept. 7 regular-season opener against the Raiders is uncertain. And rookie Dexter McDougle, a third-round pick out of the Uiversity of Maryland, is lost for the season with a torn ACL in his left knee.

To compensate, the Jets have shifted safety Antonio Allen to one corner spot. Veteran backups Ellis Lankster and Darrin Walls have taken turns manning the other corner position during the last two preseason games. The team's plan is to continue to to tinker until it can find a solution that works.

This latest development with Patterson only further complicates matters. Even if Patterson were to show for the team's next scheduled practice on Monday, Idzik was asked whether Patterson could be trusted going forward.

"That’s when you sit down and talk to the player and fully understand what’s behind the behavior," Idzik said. "I think you have to take that step first. Your knee-jerk reaction is: You’re not here with your team; you’re not here for your team. But we have to understand the reason why. We’re here for our players and we want to understand what’s going through their lives and what may impact them. Until we have that, we really can’t say."

Ryan echoed that sentiment.

"Until we hear from Dimitri," Ryan said, "I don’t feel comfortable talking about a what-if type of scenario."

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Neither Idzik nor Ryan said they had gotten any sense that Patterson was unhappy in recent weeks. Ryan said he has not spoken to Rosenhaus or anyone else associated with Patterson.

Idzik first noticed Patterson hadn't shown for Friday's game and alerted Ryan. Ryan said players sometimes can be late for games. But then Patterson never arrived.

"When Dimitri never showed up, obviously [our] main concern was the health of our player," Ryan said. "Without putting an APB out, you're trying everything you can, trying all the numbers you have, you name it, trying to find where Dimitri was.

"Since that time, we found out that he's healthy and he's in good shape that way, so that's a real positive. But, again, I really don't know anything further. I have not had a conversation with him. I've left messages; we've tried our best to get him in here and have not had success doing that yet."

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Jets release Jacoby Ford, Ras-I Dowling in latest round of cuts; roster now down to 75 (Dom Cosentino) NJ.com August 24, 2014

http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2014/08/jets_release_jacoby_ford_ras-i_dowling_in_latest_round_of_cuts_roster_now_down_to_75.html

The Jets on Sunday morning released six more players. Coupled with the seven cuts they made Saturday night, their roster is now down to 75 players in advance of Tuesday's league-mandated deadline.

Cornerback Ras-I Dowling—a former second-round pick of the Patriots—and wide receiver Jacoby Ford are the noteworthy names in this latest round of cuts. Tight end Colin Anderson, wide receiver Mike Campbell, defensive end Anthony Grady, and fullback Chad Young were also let go Sunday morning.

Those cut Saturday night were offensive tackle Bruce Campbell, linebacker Steele Divitto, offensive lineman Patrick Ford, kicker Andrew Furney, punter Jacob Schum, running back Michael Smith and offensive lineman Markus Zusevics.

The Jets had signed Ford in the spring after he played four seasons with the Raiders, where he was never central to their passing game but had contributed as a punt and kick returner. He had bobbled a punt in Friday's preseason loss to the Giants, and the Jets let another wideout, Saalim Hakim, handle the kick return duties. Releasing Ford has little impact on the Jets' salary cap; per overthecap.com, only $65,000 of his contract had been guaranteed.

"Jacoby had been given a lot of opportunities," said Jets coach Rex Ryan. "I still think he has a chance. There seemed to be some struggles. As a punt returner, we know he had the muffed punt, but that wasn’t the reason. We just felt that we had better options on this football team for our current situation right now. For his benefit, to have an early release like this may provide him an opportunity to maybe catch on with another team."

Ryan said Hakim will now handle kickoff returns for the Jets.

"He’s obviously an explosive athlete, one of the fastest guys in this league, and we feel pretty good about him," Ryan said.

By cutting Ford, the team may be signaling that rookie Jalen Saunders is ready to contribute in the return game. Saunders had missed Friday's game because of what police called a "medical event" that had caused him to drive his car off the road one week earlier.

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Dowling had been drafted by the Patriots in 2011 and released last summer. He made a couple of plays in coverage during organized team activities back in late May, but even after several injuries to the Jets' cornerbacks this summer, Dowling never got any reps with the starting defense. He did not play against the Giants.

The Jets play at the Eagles in their final preseason game on Thursday. They then must reduce their roster to the regular-season limit of 53 by 6 p.m. Saturday.

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METRO NEW YORK

Dimitri Patterson goes missing from Jets with ‘unexcused’ absence (Kristian Dyer) Metro New York August 25, 2014

http://www.metro.us/newyork/sports/nfl/2014/08/24/dimitri-patterson-goes-missing-jets-unexcused-absence/

Where in the world is Dimitri Patterson? Ask the Jets and they have no clue.

The Jets cornerback, signed as a free agent this offseason, is currently missing with no insight into how or why he disappeared. Patterson has been plagued by injuries during training camp and has underperformed on the field. He was not present on Friday in the Jets loss to the Giants.

ESPN spoke to Patterson’s agent, Drew Rosenhaus, who said his client was not injured and would be returning to the team soon.

A team source, on the condition of anonymity, said Patterson will be back with the Jets Monday morning.

On a Sunday conference call, general manager John Idzik made it clear the Jets first and foremost were concerned about Patterson’s health and safety and then would try to figure out the player’s future with the team. Related Articles Weston Richburg likely to start for Giants with Geoff Schwartz out Demario Davis: God told me Jets will have 'special year' 3 things we learned about the Giants in win over Jets

“Well nobody knew and we still don’t know. And again, I don’t want to speculate on anything,” Idzik said. “I prefer direct conversation with anyone, much less our player, just to figure out what’s going on. So, we really don’t know. We can only surmise, and again, we don’t want to speculate.”

Idzik has not been in contact with Patterson himself but with his representatives. They’ve assured him that his absence is not due to a legal matter.

Earlier this offseason, the Jets had a similar situation with running back Mike Goodson, who also went missing from the team as he dealt with legal issues. The Jets eventually released him during minicamp in June.

The Jets general manager did make it clear they were blindsided by his absence which Idzik called “unexcused.” There was no indication from Patterson that he was unhappy or had checked out.

“No, that’s what’s really baffling,” Idzik said. “Dimitri has been very engaged. He’s been very attentive in meetings. He was on the upswing and rehabbing his injuries. He’s been helpful as a veteran. He’s been helpful to our young guys because we knew our young guys were going to get increased reps going down the stretch of preseason. So there really wasn’t any warning that we had of something like this. There was nothing to indicate this kind of behavior.”

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Demario Davis: God told me Jets will have ‘special year’ (Kristian Dyer) Metro New York August 24, 2014

http://www.metro.us/newyork/sports/nfl/2014/08/24/demario-davis-god-told-jets-will-special-year/

Jets fans may not want to book tickets for the Super Bowl in Glendale, Arizona quite yet but one of their team’s defensive stars is saying this could be a special year for the team.

His source? None other than God.

Third-year linebacker Demario Davis said last year the 2013 season was going to be a “special” one for the Jets. The statement seemed absurd given the predictions head coach Rex Ryan would be fired and the team would struggle to win a handful of games. He said he received that message from God and now ahead of a 2014 year with heightened expectations and a deeper roster, he’s saying his spirit is telling him great things await this Jets team.

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SUNDAY’S SPORTS TRANSACTIONS

BASEBALL

American League

BALTIMORE ORIOLES — Recalled RHP Miguel Gonzalez from Norfolk (IL). Designated INF Cord Phelps for assignment.

BOSTON RED SOX — Recalled RHP Heath Hembree from Pawtucket (IL). Optioned RHP Brandon Workman to Pawtucket.

OAKLAND ATHLETICS — Transferred 1B Kyle Blanks from the 15- to the 60-day DL.

TEXAS RANGERS — Traded C Geovany Soto to Oakland for cash considerations.

TORONTO BLUE JAYS — Optioned RHP Kyle Drabek to Buffalo (IL).

National League

CHICAGO CUBS — Reinstated RHP Brian Schlitter from the 15-day DL and optioned him to Iowa (PCL).

COLORADO ROCKIES — Placed OF Michael Cuddyer on the 15-day DL. Activated RHP Christian Bergman. Transferred Carlos Gonzalez (knee) to the 60-day DL.

PITTSBURGH PIRATES — Claimed LHP Bobby LaFromboise off waivers from San Diego and optioned him to Indianapolis (IL). Designated INF Tommy Field for assignment.

American Association

AMARILLO SOX — Released LHP Ryan Rogers.

GARY SOUTHSHORE RAILCATS — Released INF Miles Walding and INF Logan Brumley.

WICHITA WINGNUTS — Released RHP Luke Roberston.

Atlantic League

LONG ISLAND DUCKS — Announced the contract of RHP Mitch Talbot was purchased by Lamigo (Chinese PBL). Activated RHP Brett Lorin.

Can-Am League

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QUEBEC CAPITALES — Released RHP Kirk Clark. Claimed RHP Eric Beaulac off waivers from New Jersey.

FOOTBALL

National Football League

ATLANTA FALCONS — Waived DE Theo Agnew, LBs Brendan Daley, Walker May and Darin Drakeford, S Devonta Glover-Wright, WRs Julian Jones and Tramaine Thompson, QB Jeff Mathews, RB Jerome Smith and TE Brian Wozniak. Placed OL Mike Johnson and LB Marquis Spruill on injured reserve. Placed WR Drew Davis and S Zeke Motta on the PUP list. Released S Tyrell Johnson.

BUFFALO BILLS — Released DT Alan Branch.

CAROLINA PANTHERS — Released WRs Tiquan Underwood, Marvin McNutt, Kealoha Pilares, Toney Clemons, OT Oscar Johnson, DL Lindon Gaydosh, DL Alex Hall, DL Craig Roh, LB Anthony Morales and P Jordan Gay.

CHICAGO BEARS — Waived RB Michael Ford, WR Greg Herd, WR Kofi Hughes, OT Joe Long, CB Derricus Purdy and CB Peyton Thompson. Terminated the contracts of DT Nate Collins, G-C Dylan Gandy and S Adrian Wilson.

GREEN BAY PACKERS — Released S Charles Clay, CB Antonio Dennard, WR Chris Harper, LB Korey Jones, FB Ina Liaina, QB Chase Rettig and WR Gerrard Sheppard.

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS — Waived CB Mike Harris, WR Ramses Barden, LB Allen Bradford, G Antoine Caldwell, LB Josh Hull, RB Harvey Unga, S Joe Young, C Patrick Lewis, LS Charley Hughlett and WR Kenny Shaw. Waived/injured DT David Carter.

MIAMI DOLPHINS — Named Dan Marino special adviser to the owner.

NEW YORK JETS — Released TE Colin Anderson, WR Mike Campbell, CB Ras-I Dowling, WR Jacoby Ford, DE Anthony Grady and FB Chad Young.

OAKLAND RAIDERS — Released TE Kyle Auffray, T Emmett Cleary, LB Justin Cole, WR Mike Davis, DT Torell Troup, WR Rahsaan Vaughn, and CB Jansen Watson.

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS — Released LS Jeremy Cain. Waived DT Euclid Cummings, OL Jace Daniels, WR Skye Dawson, OL Jason Foster, DE Ryne Giddins, G R.J. Mattes, WR Eric Page, WR Tommy Streeter, DE Chaz Sutton, QB Alex Tanney and FB Ian Thompson.

WASHINGTON REDSKINS — Waived FB Stephen Campbell, WR Cody Hoffman, LB Jeremy Kimbrough, WR Rashad Lawrence, S Ross Madison, DE Jake McDonough, LB Adrian Robinson and DE Jeremy Towns. Released LB Rob Jackson.

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