Jets coaches see Gholston making subtle progress
FLORHAM PARK, N.J. - Vernon Gholston's play is meticulously analyzed and scrutinized as people try to gauge the development of the Jets' 2008 first-round pick.
Some continue to tag the linebacker with the bust label because he hasn't shown a whole lot through the first three games. He has six tackles and zero sacks and still has problems shedding blockers.
But the coaches are seeing progress from the 6-3, 264-pounder with the superhero physique, and gave him a belated game ball for his play Sunday against the Titans. Gholston might have saved a touchdown when he tackled speedy Chris Johnson after a 30-yard run.
Gholston just plays without a lot of flash, defensive coordinator Mike Pettine said.
"Vernon's strength is exactly that, his strength, and that's something we've taken advantage of," Pettine said Thursday. "A lot of times that involves him knocking guys back and taking two blockers, and those are thankless jobs. Those are things that go unnoticed. That's why we're high on him because he's great while he's doing his job. That's the whole motto of our defense: Do your job and good things will happen."
Take that
Brian Schottenheimer remains good friends with Saints quarterback Drew Brees, and he recalled a conversation the two had the day before the 2004 draft.
"I think Robert Gallery was coming out that year," Schottenheimer said. "He said, 'Are we going to get that tackle?' I said, 'Drew, I'm going to be honest with you here. We are probably going to take a quarterback.' I am never going to forget the look on his face.He said, 'That will be the worst decision this organization ever makes.' His eyes kind of glossed over and he went out the next year and had a stellar year."
Extra points
QB Mark Sanchez is the first Jet named NFL rookie of the month since the award's inception in 1996 . . . CBs Lito Sheppard (quadriceps) and Donald Strickland (ankle) missed their fifth straight practice. Rex Ryan said their status is "iffy.''
