New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh seemed to shut down the DeAndre Hopkins rumors
Prior to the New York Jets‘ OTAs practice on Wednesday, head coach Robert Saleh was at the podium answering questions. Here are some of the most notable takeaways.
DeAndre Hopkins
Saleh appeared to shut down the possibility of the Jets adding DeAndre Hopkins when asked.
“We love our current group. I know there was some stuff with Odell [Beckham Jr.] … we love our group.”
Recent reports have downplayed Hopkins’s interest across the league while emphasizing his character concerns, so it isn’t shocking to see the Jets not heavily interested.
Later in the session, Saleh heaped praise on his current wide receivers.
Saleh described Garrett Wilson as a “juicy” route runner. He praised Wilson’s character and work ethic as outstanding. He also noted that Wilson has added some muscle.
juicy @GarrettWilson_V pic.twitter.com/7nGDEaAd3a
— New York Jets (@nyjets) May 31, 2023
Denzel Mims also received praise for “competing his butt off” in OTAs so far. Saleh said, “He’s got a chance to compete and make this roster.” While given as praise, this is the first time the Jets admitted he may be cut.
Corey Davis is noticeably missing during OTAs. Saleh reported that Davis and his wife are expecting a child which is why he’s not present. Saleh described him as an asset to the team before declining to go into contract details. Davis is a potential cut candidate as the Jets could clear $10.5M by releasing him.
Aaron Rodgers
Following a calf strain in the first OTA practice open to the media, Rodgers’ health has been the top storyline in New York. Saleh provided an update today.
Saleh said that Rodgers will be limited in today’s practice and is expected to be a full participant by Friday, adding they don’t intend to alter the stretching routine and the focus will be on improving communication on how he feels. Despite Rodgers’ status creating headlines, it does not seem to be an issue.
Saleh went on to praise Rodgers for how he’s attacking practice and his overall performance since joining the Jets.
Aaron Rodgers begins #Jets OTAs on the bike—with buddy Randall Cobb beside him. pic.twitter.com/vtpM41zF3R
— Robby Sabo (@RobbySabo) May 31, 2023
Breece Hall
Running back Breece Hall has been one of the biggest storylines of the offseason for the Jets as he recovers from a torn ACL suffered in Week 7. Before his injury, Hall was emerging as a top-10 running back with his 97.3 scrimmage yards per game ranking sixth among all running backs and eighth overall.
Over seven months later, Saleh provided an encouraging update on Hall’s progress.
“I feel he won’t need to be limited during training camp. We will still be conscientious and cautious with him but he looks awesome.”
When asked about Hall’s availability for Week 1, Saleh said, “I’m very optimistic, I don’t want to jinx it. Kid’s already hitting over 22 on the GPS so he looks good.”
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