New York Jets: Five Questions for Minicamp

We are on the eve of a mandatory minicamp for the Jets. Let's take a look at five key questions entering camp.

1. What to make of Muhammad Wilkerson?

We have dedicated much digital ink to discussing Muhammad Wilkerson's contract situation. We will likely spend much more digital ink dedicated to it. The biggest question is whether Wilkerson will come to minicamp. If he sits out, it will be a sign he is ready to escalate the matter and push for a quicker resolution. There have been multiple reports he will be attending. If he does, the question is whether he will be vocal with frustration over the lack of progress. The more he less, the further apart the two sides are likely away from a deal. The less he says, the closer the two sides likely are.

2. How do the quarterbacks look?

Until somebody puts a stamp on the job, this is going to be a primary question around the Jets. The coaching staff has indicated Geno Smith has a leg up but also indicated Ryan Fitzpatrick has a chance to win the job if he lights it up or Geno Smith really struggles.

3. How do the sophomores look?

This is a big year for Calvin Pryor and Jace Amaro. Both have their feet wet in the NFL. Both had mixed rookie seasons. The biggest improvement for many players is between their first and second NFL seasons. These guys now know what to expect, and they know how to prepare. While playing well in minicamp won't guarantee a breakout season, hearing some buzz about these guys would be a sign they are on the path for big second seasons.

4. What to make of the return game?

The return game is a big question for the Jets. There are no incumbents with a legitimate claim to a return job. These jobs seem wide open. For bottom of the roster types like Chris Owusu, staking a claim to a returner job might be the only path to the roster. Who is getting work there? I'm interested to find out?

5. How are the injured recovering?

The Jets have an awful lot of players coming off serious injuries from Ryan Fitzpatrick to Stevan Ridley to Dee Milliner to Dexter McDougle to Brian Winters. Some of them have hit the practice field. Others have not. Which players will be on the field, and how far into their respective recoveries will they look?