Tonight the New York Jets will take on the Philadelphia Eagles in the final preseason game of the season. The starters are expected to play just one series, leaving plenty of time for the players battling for the remaining roster spots. As head coach Rex Ryan said the other day, there are still about half dozen roster spots up for grabs, and tonight's game is basically the final chance for backups to claim them.
The Jets will most likely go into the season with six wide receivers. WR Jerricho Cotchery and WR Chansi Stuckey are going to start, unless the Gang Green add a veteran to their roster. WR David Clowney, WR Brad Smith and WR Wallace Wright have also made the team, leaving just one slot at wide receiver up for grabs. WR Britt Davis and WR Aundrae Allison are in the battle for the final spot. The latter seems to have an edge after catching a touchdown against the Giants.
The team has tried several players for the punter role, but the only punter who is still on the team is P Reggie Hodges. Hodges hasn't really looked impressive, but still beaten the free agents that the Jets have tried for his role. Being the only remaining punter, however, doesn't guarantee a roster spot, as the Jets still have time to bring another free agent.
With the addition of CB Lito Sheppard, many thought that the Jets had two solid starters at cornerback (CB Darrelle Revis being the other). Sheppard's poor showing against the Giants, however, suddenly raised a lot of questions whether the Gang Green had enough corners capable of playing man-to-man coverage. CB Dwight Lowery has played really badly this preseason; CB Drew Coleman has shown some flashes but got beaten on quite a few big plays. Offseason acquisition CB Donald Strickland hasn't impressed either. Another free agent signing, CB Marquice Cole, has shown some flashes and had an interception against the Ravens.
LB Brandon Renkart, 14-year special teams expert LB Larry Izzo and LB Jason Trusnik are battling for the remaining spot at linebacker. Trusnik has impressed the most thus far and a good showing tonight should be enough to get the job.