" Colts, Seahawks head teams with most improved receiving corps " we are #..... ~ ~ ~

[kelly]

As we head into the 2015 NFL campaign, Bucky Brooks is identifying which teams have improved the most in particular position groupings since the end of last season. Today's focus: receiving corps.

 

~ ~  3) New York Jets

 

For all of the criticism thrown in Geno Smith's direction over the past two years, the Jets' lack of offensive production was largely due to the lack of playmakers on the perimeter. Without an established or respected WR1 on the roster, opponents routinely forced Smith to make pinpoint throws against tight coverage, leading to a rash of turnovers from the young passer. Of course, Ryan Fitzpatrick looks to be at the helm at the start of this season, as Smith will miss the next six to 10 weeks after having his jaw broken by a teammate's sucker punch. Fortunately, Gang Green will provide Fitzpatrick with a vastly upgraded group of pass catchers.

 

The arrival of Brandon Marshall should alter opponents' plans against the Jets and allow the team's complementary receivers to settle into more comfortable roles. A five-time Pro Bowler, Marshall has logged seven 1,000-yard campaigns, five of which also included 100 catches. He expands the strike zone for his quarterback with size, length and leaping ability -- this makes the receiver a true red-zone weapon in key situations. With 65 career touchdown receptions and a stellar reputation as a "chain mover," Marshall should become the focal point of the Jets' offense in 2015.

 

Eric Decker should benefit significantly from Marshall's arrival. The sixth-year pro is an ideal WR2, exhibiting exceptional hands, ball skills and route-running ability on the back side. When Decker has played with a dominant playmaker on the other side (see: his production opposite Demaryius Thomas in Denver), he has delivered big numbers against CB2s. He could surpass Marshall's overall production despite filling a role as a complementary pass catcher.

 

Devin Smith's rib injury could impact his early-season production, but the Jets are counting on the ex-Ohio State star to add an explosive element to the passing game. He shined as a vertical playmaker in Columbus (Smith averaged 28.2 yards per catch and scored 12 touchdowns during his final season at OSU) and should see plenty of deep balls head in his direction with opponents focused on slowing down Marshall and Decker. If Smith can add a big-play dimension to the Jets' attack, Todd Bowles' squad could create problems for opposing defenses with a diverse approach in the passing game.

 

rest of above article :

> http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000508996/article/colts-seahawks-head-teams-with-most-improved-receiving-corps

[kelly]

now,.. if we just had a qb...