Three Jets' Stories for 'Hard Knocks' to Cover in Episode 2
After watching the debut episode of HBO's "Hard Knocks," it's hard to not feel like the New York Jets are going to the Super Bowl.
There was certainly enough to excite even the casual fans and make them believers in what Robert Saleh is cooking.
Still, I wanted more. For all the juice that the first episode carried, there were numerous missed opportunities on the part of the production staff.
I know there's only so much room in a 60-minute show, but some of that time was wasted in my opinion.
The most-glaring transgression unfolded during the episode's Hall of Fame Game coverage. There was an opportunity to highlight Jets' legend Joe Klecko, who was being honored along with Darrelle Revis, during the pregame on-field festivities, but the Hall of Famer was limited to a split-second appearance on the sideline.
Instead of Klecko, the producers gave us an extended awkward moment with Sauce Gardner and former NFL safety Rodney Harrison.
In what world does a New England Patriot gets more air time than a Jets' Hall of Famer during Enshrinement Week?
Anyway, here's how the producers can make up for their criminal behavior.
I would like to see these three storylines addressed during Episode 2, which drops on August 15 at 10:00 pm ET on HBO and its streaming service.
More Defensive Line, Please
There's no question that Aaron Rodgers is the headliner of this whole operation, and rightfully so, but save the wall-to-wall Rodgers coverage for a future episode of "A Football Life."
While giving us the obligatory dose of A-Rod, how about a deeper look at the highly-rated defensive line and the personalities that comprise it?
"With our D-line, we always say that we go as they go," said Saleh after the unit's dominant preseason effort against the Carolina Panthers.
Not only is this the deepest position group on the team, it's loaded with colorful individuals who will seemingly thrive on camera.
A likable guy like Quinnen Williams was made for "Hard Knocks."
How about a closer look at the ultra fit and greatly intimidating Micheal Clemons, who made a shirtless arrival to training camp while carrying a baseball bat?
The Jets are clearly Rodgers's team, but don't underestimate the importance of the defensive line in this equation.
Undrafted Underdog
There are plenty of underdogs battling for their NFL future on the Jets' 90-man roster. Let's get the chance to meet one, up close and personal.
One "Hard Knocks" moment that has stuck with me over the years was when Chris Hogan emerged at Miami Dolphins' camp. The lacrosse player-turned-receiver went undrafted after playing one year of football for NCAA DI FCS member Monmouth, but became known as "7-eleven" for being "always open."
There has to be a Chris Hogan type amongst these Jets and the receiving corps is a good place to look.
Undrafted rookie pass-catchers Jason Brownlee and Xavier Gipson have been on the radar since standing out during OTAs. There's also Jerome Kapp, who hails from the Division II school that produced Hall of Famer Andre Reed. Or how about roster longshot TJ Luther?
Here's to hoping for a profile on one of these undrafted rookies who is chasing his NFL dream.
Cafeteria Scenes
Between the lunch room banter and players' meal choices, there's plenty to observe during the dining portion of the day.
Even Rodgers mentioned the cafeteria setting during his viral post-practice speech.
"Find a conversation at lunchtime with somebody new. Don't always sit with the same group," said Rodgers.
How about an inside look at these lunchtime interactions?
I'm sure there is plenty of good conversation and debate that reveals more about the individual personalities on the roster. Plus, who doesn't want to know what the defensive line usually eats for lunch other than opposing quarterbacks?
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