Rex Ryan: Stephen Hill didn't take advantage of his chances
Jets head coach Rex Ryan watches his team play in a preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Aug. 28, 2014 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. Credit: Getty Images / Evan Habeeb
Stephen Hill got all the chances he needed, Rex Ryan said. He just didn't take advantage of his opportunities.
The Jets coach wished his former receiver well Monday during a conference call, but Ryan also laid out the cold, hard facts regarding Hill's release.
"We certainly didn't give up on Stephen or anybody else," Ryan said, noting that Hill, a 2012 second-round pick, received more snaps than any other receiver during camp and did not contribute on special teams. "We provide the opportunity to make a team, and some guys reached out and took it. And other guys, it never worked out for you."
The Jets waived Hill Saturday after two disappointing seasons and a so-so preseason. He went unclaimed. He worked out for Carolina on Monday, a source confirmed to Newsday.
Told that Hill's agent, Alan Herman, criticized the organization for not doing right by his client, Ryan said: "Certainly, he has a right to his opinion. But if anything, I believe that I do support all of our players. But again, I understand it is probably a difficult situation at the time and I certainly wish Stephen the best."
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The Jets were awarded former Cardinals receiver Walter Powell off waivers. Powell, a sixth-round pick by Arizona in this year's draft, had six receptions for 106 yards in the preseason. He also was used on special teams. To make room for Powell, the Jets released rookie linebacker Jeremiah George, a fifth-round pick . . . Rookie receiver Quincy Enunwa was waived to make room for cornerback Phillip Adams. Enunwa and George are expected to be signed to the practice squad.
