Rodgers-Wilson connection has Jets starting CB searching for answers

Ralph Ventre

Rodgers-Wilson connection has Jets starting CB searching for answers image

DJ Reed is seeing a first-hand preview of what awaits opposing cornerbacks when they face the New York Jets offense this season.

In his third training camp as a Jets starter, Reed has taken a high volume of reps against wide receiver Garrett Wilson and the WR1 has seemingly beaten the veteran defender more often than not. The club shared two video clips of the battle on social media — one showing Wilson flying by Reed on a deep ball and another showing a redzone touchdown reception.

"They've been battles," said Reed on Saturday. "Today, he ran a route on me. He ran a sluggo (slant-go), and he got me. I'll just say 8 [Rodgers] and Garrett, they're definitely on a different zone right now. With what we're being asked to do, they're making it hard."

Wilson, who is aiming to exceed the 1,000-yard receiving mark for the third year in a row, has quickly become a favorite target of quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

 

"I told him in the meeting yesterday, I think he has the talent and the ability to be the best receiver in the League," said Rodgers last week.

The growing QB-WR rapport has been evident to Reed.

"With their chemistry, they're doing stuff on the go," said Reed. "Like they're running a certain route, if you over pursue, they're running another route. They're definitely in a different element, but it's ultimately going to make me better."

Ralph Ventre

Ralph Ventre Photo

Ralph Ventre, a former college football conference administrator, brings 20 years of media experience to the New York Jets beat. Prior to concentrating on Gang Green, he covered the NCAA DI Football Championship Subdivision for NFL Draft Bible on Sports Illustrated’s FanNation. Ventre remains an official voter for the Stats Perform FCS Top 25 and the annual legacy awards. The Fordham University graduate is a member of the Pro Football Writers of America, and he also covers the Buffalo Bills on SI. The veteran sports media professional resides in his native state of New Jersey.