Eric Decker understands what a well-functioning offense looks like. As a member of the Denver Broncos, he helped balance out an attack that featured a wide variety of playmakers from the receivers to the quarterback to the running back. Everyone had career-high seasons. Now with the New York Jets, he is hopeful to have the same thing as the team continues to make moves serving the effort.
The Jets are not the Broncos but Decker believes they can be and he thinks it all starts with the addition of Chris Johnson. The Jets signed the former Tennessee Titans running back after his release in hopes that he can regain his old former. Johnson had six straight 1,000 yard seasons but recently he has been plagued by injuries more than great stats. Recent reports of knee arthritis have some fans worried, but not Decker.
"I'm excited," Decker said, via NFL.com. "Everyone knows he's very explosive. He's had 1,000-yard seasons over the last I think six years, or however long it has been. Just reading his comments in the press - he's hungry. He's got a chip on his shoulder. I think he adds a dynamic piece to our offense."
With Johnson now on the roster to pair with Chris Ivory, the ground game appears set. Now if the Jets could just get their quarterback game settled. Johnson spoke with ESPNNewYork and noted that when he signed, he was told Geno Smith and Michael Vick would be competing for the starting job. Music to Jets fans ears, right?
"They didn't give me no indication," Johnson said. "They said those two will battle it out in camp and may the best man win."
Decker should be thrilled with this news as well. Smith and Vick are a far cry of what Manning is. Last season, Smith tossed 12 touchdowns and 21 interceptions. Vick is certainly more experienced, but may no longer be good enough to start.
The Jets will try and help both players out by likely drafting another wide receiver in May. The team has been linked to several top options and could grab someone in the first round. Not in a position to get Sammy Watkins, the Jets are looking at both Mike Evans and Odell Beckham Jr to be new targets for whichever quarterback is under center.
Decker might be thrilled with what the team has done so far, but make no mistake they are still a ways from being Denver. However he is right in saying the Jets are a better team now instead of before.
