Smartline-8/2

Bringing you all of the day's developments from Cortland, it's Smartline. Here's your host, Kent Brockman.

Ryan has high praise for former Rutgers star - Jets Blog
Rex talked about undrafted rookie Jamaal Westerman from Rutgers. He expects Westerman to make a name for himself this year. Interestingly, the team is giving the converted defensive end work at inside linebacker even though he is a natural pass rusher. Moving inside is how Jason Trusnik cracked the lineup last season. Having versatile backup linebackers like those two will be very helpful. The team sure would be thrilled if he could step up and fill David Bowens' role. Finding a gem like this take some of the sting out of giving up so many mid and late round picks for Shonn Greene. It's like replacing that sixth or seventh round pick.

The Jets Stream - NY Daily News
I say practicing in the elements is good. Weather isn't going to be good in the Meadowlands in December. In any event, if the Jets didn't want to practice in the weather, maybe they should have found a place for camp with indoor facilities, maybe their STATE OF THE ART COMPLEX IN FLORHAM PARK?

Lito's Speed, Ability, Wisdom Remain High : New York Jets News
Lito Sheppard appears to be bouncing back from a rough couple seasons in Philly because of a change in scenery. The Jets will sure need him. A quarter of the schedule is comprised of games against the New England and Buffalo receiving duos. Rex Ryan also loves to blitz, which put a lot of pressure on cover corners to do their jobs without help.

Rhodes Still Loves What He Sees of This Defense : New York Jets News
Kerry's loving this new defense. Since Jim Leonhard is taking over the calls, he's got a lot less on his plate. He has to love the freedom he now has to roam and try to make big plays. The old defense was predicated on more rigid assignments.

On a Roll: Hodges Hits 95-Yard Punt in P.M.
Reggie Hodges drilled a 95 yard punt yesterday. I'd still like to see undrafted rookie from Idaho T. J. Conley win the job. Hodges was inconsistent in 2008, and Conley's 47.8 yard average was impressive. I'd love to see how much he can improve that with Mike Westhoff mentoring him.