Couple of surprises when the Jets returned to practice today. They're a lesser team, of course, but their top wideout and starting running back could have value against the Saints this week. But those players are looking iffy right now.
Most notably, Elijah Moore didn't practice with a quad issue. The team is calling him day-to-day, which is the popular designation for player who might play this week and might not. Moore has been the team's No. 1 wideout over the past month, and looks even more rock solid with Corey Davis (groin) on IR. Now we need to wonder if he'll be able to suit up against a Saints defense that's very good, but it easier to pass on than to run on.
Robert Saleh is "hopeful" that Moore will play this week. "Hopeful" is the terrific new expression from coaches that has absolutely new value whatsoever. I'm hopeful the sun comes out today. I'm hopeful the scratch game I was given last week has a million dollar prize. Hopeful is a word that can be accurate if something is likely to happen, or nearly impossible. We'll have a better idea of Moore's status on Friday, but in the interim, it might be worth picking up Jamison Crowder. He would look like the team's No. 1 wide receiver if Moore can't go.
Tevin Coleman is in the concussion protocol. The team is using him as its main runner with Michael Carter on IR, so his absence would be noteworthy. Not that Coleman would be expected to do much against a very tough Saints run defense, but if he's out, Ty Johnson might conceivably have a three-down role, as not only the passing downs back but also the main runner. The Jets would work in another back, certainly, either LaMical Perine or Austin Walter, but I think Johnson would look pretty decent to play the majority of snaps.
These are situations we'll have a better handle on come Friday, but for now, might be worth adding Johnson or Crowder if you have the roster room.
--Andy Richardson