Kellen Clemens Resigned To Role As No. 3
(Daily News) CORTLAND - Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez spoke to the assembled microphones before him under a tent Wednesday morning. Kellen Clemens, meanwhile, stood in the sun and addressed his new role as the No. 3 quarterback. He had just been informed that 39-year-old Mark Brunell is officially the backup.
"I was under the impression that there would be more of a battle," said Clemens, who is entering his fifth season as a reserve with the Jets. "I've had a good camp."
Rex Ryan said later that Brunell's position was "predetermined," and Clemens noted that the repetitions thus far indicate the same. Ryan would not rule out keeping all four quarterbacks during the season - Kevin O'Connell being the fourth - but that is unlikely.
When asked whether he would like to stay now that he's been named the third-stringer, Clemens said, "The chances of getting a ring with the New York Jets this year are pretty dang good.
"Stay here, be a three, win a ring - there could be worse scenarios."
Clemens, 27, has started nine games in his career and signed a one-year tender worth $1.176 million in April. He said that he would have to weigh his options.
"It's been an adventure the last few years," Clemens said.
PASSING CHANCE
Last season, the Jets rushed a league-high 607 times, but with more weapons at wide receiver (Santonio Holmes), Ryan said the run-pass balance will shift. "I don't think you'll see us running 600 times," he said, "but I still think we're built to be ground and pound."
ACHES & PAINS
OLB Jason Taylor (groin) practiced. . . . LB Brashton Satele (ankle) was limited. . . . TE Jeff Cumberland (concussion) practiced with a non-contact jersey. . . . G Marlon Davis (quad) and CB Brian Jackson (knee) didn't practice.
EXTRA POINTS
THE BUZZ
On-field hard knocks came when DT Sione Pouha jumped offsides and banged into C Nick Mangold's helmet in practice. Mangold lost his footing and crumpled to the ground. He did not return to practice, and protection became an issue in his absence.
SAY WHAT?
"You couldn't pay me enough to be a general manager." - Rex Ryan
