Slauson Named Starting LG...

No surprise here.

Matt Slauson officially was named the starting left guard over second-round draft pick Vladimir Ducasse Thursday. The news didn’t surprise the media -- or Ducasse.

Ducasse said the Jets didn’t tell him directly that Slauson would start Monday night against the Ravens, but he had a feeling.

The competition, however, isn’t over, he said.

“All I’ve got to do is keep working hard,” he said. “That’s all I can say right now. It’s never over. It’s a long season. I’ve just got to keep working hard, you never know.’

Slauson said he expects the Ravens to test him, being that he’s inexperienced and must fill the vacated spot left by nine-time Pro Bowler Alan Faneca, who was released and later signed with Arizona.

Safety Brodney Pool (ankle) did not practice today, but he is "doing better," said Ryan, and is expected to practice Friday. If he's unable to start Monday's game vs. the Raves, Ryan said fellow safety Eric Smith would start in Pool's place. The coach said he'll be forced to rotate in other DBs due to Smith's role on special teams.

Linebacker Calvin Pace (foot) did not participate in practice, as well, and is out for Monday's game. Defensive end Shaun Ellis (knee) was limited.

In other news, the Jets signed QB Kevin O'Connell to a two-year deal. Though he is expected to be placed on injured reserve, Ryan said O'Connell is a guy that could compete for the No. 3 QB spot next season.