Resurgent Denzel Mims is the star of NY Jets training camp Day 1

Zach Wilson’s New York Jets offense racks up the good moments on first day of 2022 training camp

The New York Jets held their first practice of training camp on Wednesday, and there were plenty of interesting takeaways from Florham Park.

First off: the early stages of the George Fant-versus-Mekhi Becton battle for the left tackle position. Fant was activated from the PUP list and suited up to practice. On day one, it was Fant lining up at left tackle while Becton lined up at right tackle.

As expected, if you read #Jets X-Factor, Mekhi Becton starts at RT while George Fant begins camp at LT.

It makes too much sense.

— Robby Sabo (@RobbySabo) July 27, 2022

Once team drills got underway, it was an exciting day for the offense.

Zach Wilson had it going on with his top targets, notably connecting with Tyler Conklin and Garrett Wilson.

First pass of team, Zach Wilson makes the correct read. Had a couple of deep options that were locked up. Check-down to Conklin, middle of field. #Jets

— Robby Sabo (@RobbySabo) July 27, 2022

Wilson to Wilson connection, vs. zone, an *anticipation* throw. Nice route, nice ball, about 10 yards. #Jets

— Robby Sabo (@RobbySabo) July 27, 2022

One year ago, Denzel Mims‘s name was making its way around the New York City headlines because of his presence in the Jets’ doghouse. Now, Mims is drawing attention for the right reasons, as he seems to be getting back on track. Mims stood out with a trio of impressive catches on Wednesday.

Flacco to Mims, veteran throw in the perfect spot against a familiar zone coverage. Mims went up to snag it, ball placed beyond second level and short of third level. As Francesa would say: “Winda throw.” #Jets

— Robby Sabo (@RobbySabo) July 27, 2022

Denzel Mims is *attacking* the ball. Two grabs this far (Flacco, White) vs. zone. Interestingly, it’s the ball-in-air mindset that jumps off the chart early on. #Jets

— Robby Sabo (@RobbySabo) July 27, 2022

Another impressive Mims play. Hands catch with a defender draped on inside shoulder. All over him. Great placement by Mike White. A 9.5 of 10 catch difficulty grab by No. 11. #Jets

Again, his mindset is noticeably different early with ball in air (attacking). Gotta maintain it.

— Robby Sabo (@RobbySabo) July 27, 2022

On the defensive side of the ball, D.J. Reed registered a highlight with an impressive interception off of a low throw by Wilson.

D.J. Reed with a great competitive rep. Picked off Wilson in the red zone as the ball was heading to the ground. Intended for Calvin Jackson.

Would’ve been for 6 the other way.

— Ethan Greenberg (@EGreenbergJets) July 27, 2022

Here is a clip of Reed and Sauce Gardner working on their press-coverage technique.

Sauce and D.J. Reed working press tech early on day No. 1. #Jets pic.twitter.com/JbHi3tV5kP

— Robby Sabo (@RobbySabo) July 27, 2022

Carl Lawson showed up in impressive shape, looking ready to embark on a comeback season following his devastating Achilles injury in August 2021.

HEY! CARL! GOOD TO SEE YOU! pic.twitter.com/RouKWJO8b7

— New York Jets (@nyjets) July 27, 2022

On special teams, it was a great day for the Jets’ kicking competition. Greg Zuerlein and Eddy Pineiro each went 4-for-4. Each kicker made one kick from 28 yards, two from 33 yards, and one from 39 yards.

First day of competition for the #Jets kickers:
– Greg Zuerlein 4 for 4
– Eddy Pineiro 4 for 4

— Dennis Waszak Jr. (@DWAZ73) July 27, 2022