Oh. Don’t forget the mouth of The Jets boisterous, blunt and vocal coach, who after sneaking into the playoffs at 9-7, declared his wild-card Jets should be favored to win it all. Despite the roller coaster season, the Jets seem to be gelling at the right time. And their prayers are being answered.

Jets owner Woody Johnson, though deeply saddened by the sudden death of his daughter, couldn’t be happier about the progression of his rookie coach and rookie QB.

Johnson made it clear he wanted to inject some energy, excitement, confidence into a Jets franchise that had become vanilla, pedestrian and evasive to the media under the emotionless Eric Mangini.

By hiring two novices to lead his organization, Johnson also hoped for some back page burn in the local newspapers. NFL coverage in NY has been a Giants-fest the past decade. He also needed to mask the ridiculously priced tickets and PSL’s with a new enthusiasm about a new Jets team, with new leadership and moving in a new direction. Up.

Thanks to Johnson’s two main off season imports — the great pontificator and rebel rouser Ryan, and swagalicious, pretty-boy Sanchez, who seems as built for Broadway as any Jets QB since Joe Namath — the Jets are the only team getting headlines right now. Sanchez is slowly quieting his naysayers and looking like a future stud.

The comparisons to Namath, which seemed premature during the season, don’t seem as farfetched now. And we know what Namath did for NY. He single-handedly helped make pro football in NY a huge deal, by brashly guaranteeing and then pulling off one of the greatest upsets in history, leading his underdog AFL Jets to a victory over what everyone felt was a superior and unbeatable Colts team, led by the greatest pure passer in NFL history, Johnny Unitas.

Sanchez already came packaged with the superstar looks and attitude. The dark hair. The height. The million dollar smile. The fearless play. His confidence and the way you can obviously see the team believes in him, contributes to his burgeoning reputation as well.

Sanchez and Ryan are equal factors in the Jets surprising playoff run. The similarities between the two are obvious, and each man’s legacy will largely depend on the success of the other. Sanchez has had an up and down season. So has Ryan. Sanchez was drafted after just one season as a starter at USC. Rex, the son of Buddy, a former NFL coach and great defensive coordinator credited with inventing the vaunted 46 defense, never had a head coaching job before the Jets made him top dog.

Both came out the shoot this season like gangbusters, going 3-0 and showing veteran –like savvy. That was the worst possible thing that could have happened to them. The fans got spoiled. Then the Jets predictably hit the rough patch of the schedule, losing three in a row, culminated by Sanchez throwing five picks in an OT loss to Buffalo.

At the same time, Ryan seemed to be losing his team, even breaking down and crying in a press conference. All of a sudden the magic they seemed to have was fizzling. The reality of having a rookie head coach and quarterback was settling in. Sanchez got an early and first-hand view of the pressure and finicky attitudes of NY sports followers. The fans and media began screaming for backup Kellen Clemens to save the season. Ryan even took a shot at Sanchez, blasting him in the media for not being smart and playing recklessly. The coaching staff lost faith in the rooks decision-making as the season and interceptions progressed, and cut half of his playbook Ryan, who rarely holds his tongue, went so far as to concede any chance at the playoffs after a disheartening 10-7 loss to Atlanta dropped the team under .500 [6-7].  I’m sure the absence of leading offensive weapon Leon Johnson didn’t exactly add to Ryan’s confidence that his team could turn it around.

But just as it seemed the first year of the Ryan-Sanchez experience would end with more question marks than answers, the Jets won their last three games and made the postseason. What was supposed to be a symbolic playoff appearance and a step in the right direction for a new Jets team, has become much more after upsetting the Cincinnati Bengals in the wild-card game.  Now the Jets are showing more similarities to that 1969 team, than the choke artists they had been the last two decades.

The Jets boast the league’s No. 1 defense and rushing attack. While they may have been able to get away with limiting Sanchez’s touches during the season, for the Jets to go deeper in these playoffs, Sanchez’s arm will be the key. Sanchez has the tools to throw downfield, avoid defenders and create big plays.

I always had confidence that given a chance Sanchez could reign in his mistakes and make positive contributions throwing the ball. The Jets are not going to beat teams like the Colts and Chargers just running the ball. Sanchez, as he did last week in Cincy will have to throw. Throw deep. Throw accurate. And hopefully throw his team into The AFC Championship Game and possibly even…should I say it?  The Jets first Super Bowl appearance in over 40 years. Most veteran observers of football give the Jets no shot. Ryan and Sanchez think they can go all the way. What do they know any way? They are just rookies, living on a wing and a prayer.

«FULL STORY»

Woody Johnson
(Opening Statement): “I want to apologize for the interview that I did the other day where you asked me what was going on and I couldn’t give you the answers. Now you can see there is an answer to what the questions were last week. We’ve got Brett Favre as a new member of the Jets. We went through this process for the same reason we’ve been running the team all along with Mike (Tannenbaum) and Eric (Mangini), to try to improve this team each and every year. I just want to say it was difficult with Chad (Pennington) because Chad came at the same time I did and we owe Chad a lot of gratitude for the dedication for his dogged, team-oriented persistence even in light of all the adversity that we had in some years. He was always concentrated and always a good teammate so thanks to Chad. Today we’re here to talk about what we’re going to be doing going forward so I’d like to toss it over to Mike and he can describe what has happened the last 24 hours.”

Mike Tannenbaum
(Opening Statement): “Thanks Woody. I don’t have much more to add since the last time we spoke. I don’t know if we’ve gotten a chance to sleep since that time. It is a bittersweet moment. We have released Chad. I have spoken to him, Eric has spoken to him and Mr. Johnson has spoken to him and again, on the record, I have all the respect in the world for Chad and what he’s done on the field as well as off the field. He’s a good player and a great person, he’s done a lot of great things for our organization and I wish him nothing but the best. Fundamentally, the decision was made between Eric, myself, and Mr. Johnson from a standpoint that if this opportunity presented itself, we felt we were getting good play at the quarterback position. We felt this was a good opportunity to improve that and that’s why we went ahead and made the decision. We did a luminous amount of research on Brett as a player but also as a person and making sure we thought he could fit in the locker room. We were extremely comfortable not just with what he did on the field, but as importantly, what he did off the field and what he stands for. We are happy. We are excited. We’re really glad he’s a member of this team. I can say on (Brett Favre’s) behalf that I think we’re all looking forward to getting past this stuff and going out there and playing some football.”

Brett Favre
(Opening Statement) “Thanks Mike and Mr. Johnson. The last 24 hours have been crazy. Really the last three weeks and this whole offseason has been bizarre or whatever you want to call it, but it is what it is. I am a member of the Jets. I am excited about it. I’m excited about the opportunity, and no one works as hard as this man right here (Mike Tannenbaum). I was told by numerous people to at least talk to Mike over the last month and, as I told him today, the only reason that I wouldn’t talk to him up until 24 hours ago was because I knew how I’d be convinced once I talked to him. Did I ever think this scenario would present itself? No. Am I excited about the opportunity? Yes. I’ve had a great career in Green Bay. That goes without saying. The things that have happened there this offseason, in my opinion, are over and done with. I wish them well. I will use their term—we’re moving forward. I hope that I play at the level that I’ve always played at. There’s no guarantees, there’s never been any guarantees for me. The game of football is just that and anything can happen, but I’ll bring the leadership and durability. I’m a little bit out of shape compared to all the other guys, but I’m so excited about this opportunity and I’ll tell you, my family and everyone involved has just been treated unbelievably by this organization. I’ve never looked forward to doing a conditioning test as much as I have at this point (joking). I’m so tired of doing interviews and talking about this or talking about that. Tomorrow, hopefully, the mad rush is over and we can get that conditioning test at noon tomorrow. I’m looking forward to that (joking) and we go on. The most important thing in this whole process is the guys in that locker room. I know some of these guys by name, Bubba Franks I played with and know personally, but I really don’t know these guys and they don’t know me. I think when they get to know me they’ll like me and they’ll like the way I play and they’ll figure out that I’ll do whatever it takes to win and it’s about the team. I hope after today and tomorrow that the distractions are at a minimum. It’s ok to have attention as long as it’s based on this team and I’m just one man, one of 53, so we’ll see what happens and I’m excited about the opportunity.”

(On the fans moving on) “I can’t answer that for them, all I can say is I’ve always wanted to be a Packer. I think I always will be a Packer. Sixteen years is hard to forget for everyone and I’d like to think that those 16 years, people will say ‘it’s the best 16 years I’ve ever watched.’ It was a lot of fun for me. I think it was made clear this offseason that they were moving forward. Some things happened in between that and that’s okay and it’s time for me to move on. I had forgotten that I had been traded 17 or 18 years ago and what that process was like. It’s a little bit different scenario now but I’m really excited. It’s refreshing, not that I needed that. I think to the fans, I would say ‘continue to be Brett Favre fans.’ There may be some who say ‘no.’ And for those people, maybe they were not die-hard Brett Favre fans to begin with. Packer fans are Packer fans, there’s a 40,000 or more waiting list for a reason and that will continue. It’s a great tradition. I’m thankful that I was a part of it. I’m not a traitor. I never will be. It’s a business and that’s the way it works. I gave everything I possibly could give while I was there and I don’t think people will question that and I hope that the Jet fans see the same thing and so I hope I continue to have fans all over, that’s what we play for.”

(On if No. 4 will be retired in Green Bay) “I hadn’t really thought about it. I’m sure it will at some point but you know what, they talk about statues they talk about having streets (named after you). I’m not just talking about me, you hear that throughout sports, that’s not what it’s about with me. It’s like records I gained at Southern Mississippi. I look back and my experience there is much more important than the records and when and if that ever happens, great. I don’t need a jersey retired, a statue or a street named after me or anything like that for people to remember me, for me to feel like I’ve done something. I think the way I’ve played, the way I’ve handled myself is the most important thing, and I think it will be postponed for a while.”

(On why he wouldn’t talk to Mike Tannenbaum until 24 hours ago) “I’ll tell you exactly why. The decision or decisions that were made this whole offseason, right or wrong, I knew I was going to be faced with another tough one, whereas if you’re dealing with one team, the decision is easy. (James) Bus (Cook) would say ‘at least talk to him.’ Several other people in this room said the same thing, ‘talk to him.’ I told Bus that if I talk to him that we’re going to be scratching our heads saying ‘now what do we do?’ I knew I would be convinced. Jon Gruden, I tip my hat to him too. It was a long time ago when we were working together but he sold me as well. There’s nothing more to it than that. I knew it would make it a real tough decision. Mike (Tannenbaum) is a worker, I woke up this morning and the trigger was pulled.”

(On how he was convinced to come to New York) “I was never not interested in the Jets. I think my interest at first, I’m sure as we all know, was to stay within our division. Maybe that was a little bit of a vindictive nature or competitive nature or whatever. I think in the end that was probably the wrong motive and I realized that was not going to happen. That’s only one or two games a year playing against your old team so you still have a lot more to play. It had nothing to do with other teams. I look at the talent level and believe me, I heard it from (Mike Tannenbaum). I was sent everything about the Jets you can imagine, it was sent to my house and he told me everything I needed to know. He was convincing, I knew this team had a lot of talent. I knew they struggled last year and he went out and worked his tail off. I know he’s worn out. He’s relieved now but I know at the end of the season he’s going to be more relieved. There came a point when I realized my initial thoughts were not going to come true, that I had to look elsewhere. I haven’t played in New York. I’m a south Mississippi boy. (Mike) came to my place today and he saw it’s a little bit different, it’s a little laid back. I know how tough it can be and I know how great it can be in New York city. Am I ready to face it, handle it and deal with it? I think so. I think it’s a great opportunity.”

(On being on a big stage in New York) “Kind of like the last month? (joking). Green Bay is a small market but is there a bigger team? I’ve been in front of a lot of media. I’ve been in big games. I’ve won big games. I’ve lost big games. I’ve had my share of criticism and glory. This is unique. I haven’t faced anything like this. I don’t know anyone in this locker room and to a certain degree I really don’t know what I’m getting in to. I’m talking about it from a team standpoint. What can I do in a short amount of time to get this team where we want to go and get myself ready? It doesn’t matter what city it’s in. I’m here for one reason, not to do commercials, Broadway, all those things. I’m here to help the Jets win, that’s why they got me.

(On how he will get himself ready) “You have to dive into it. The only way you’re going to know these guys, know how they play, know the coaches is to be in meetings, is to go to practice. Now I’d be kidding myself if I thought after the second day I wouldn’t be walking on eggshells, my feet will be hurting, shoulder will be hurting, all the fun things about camp. That is the way you build chemistry. To me the most important aspect of winning is chemistry. You can have the best players possible, but it doesn’t guarantee you wins. Chemistry, how you play together and I think the Giants are a good example of that. They started off shaky last year with the same guys. The chemistry got better and they got better. We’re up against the clock. I want these guys to know me, know what I’m about, how I play, what type of leadership I have. I’m not going to call team meetings, I’m not going to ‘rah-rah,’ I’m going to do what I have to do, pat guys on my back, hug them, pick them up off the ground and hope they do the same for me and hope that’s enough to win.”

(On why things went bad in Green Bay) “That’s a good question. I think we’re probably both at fault. I’m not going to sit here and blame it all on one side or the other. A lot of things happened this offseason, a lot of shocking things. I think we’re both at fault. Who is at fault more? It’s a matter of opinion but I really think at this point it’s irrelevant. They probably are tired of talking about it. I know it’s great for the media, it’s a great soap opera but I’ve got a lot of respect for the guys in Green Bay. I said last year and I said the year before that, that is was probably the most talented team I’d ever played on and everybody thought I was crazy. I still think the same. I think they have as good a chance as anyone in this league of getting back to not only where they were but to the Super Bowl. I had a lot of fun with those guys, the coaching staff. We had some differences between myself and a couple other people. But you know what? There’s nothing like Green Bay fans. That team is going to be good with or without me and it really serves no purpose to continue talking about it. I know people will try to fuel the fire throughout the season, but once again, I’m here for one reason and that’s to help the Jets win. I don’t think they need to be asked questions about it. I hope that they are left alone so they can deal with what they have to deal with. The same thing for Green Bay, at some point it has to be let go.”

New York Jets Release QB Chad Pennington

August 7, 2008 — The New York Jets have released QB Chad Pennington. The announcement was made by Jets General Manager Mike Tannenbaum.

“I appreciate everything Chad Pennington has given to the Jets organization,” Jets Chairman and CEO Woody Johnson said.  “He was a part of my first draft as an owner in 2000 and has exemplified nothing but class both on and off the field. I wish him, Robin, Luke and Cole my very best.”

“I have all the respect in the world for Chad as a person and a player,” said Tannenbaum. “We have accomplished a lot of great things with Chad, including winning playoff games, which is very hard to do. He gave his heart and soul to this organization for a long, long time. I really appreciate everything he has done.”

Pennington (6-3, 225/Marshall/Knoxville, TN), the 18^th-overall selection in the 2000 NFL Draft, finished his eight-year Jets career 32-29 as a starter. He ranks number one all-time in NFL history for completion percentage (65.6 percent, 1,259-1,919). In Jets history, Pennington is first in all-time completion percentage and passer rating (88.9), and fourth in Jets history in career passing yards (13,738), touchdowns (82), attempts and completions. He led the Jets to the postseason three times, 2002, 2004 and 2006, winning two playoff games.

Here’s the release:

Jets acquire QB Brett Favre from Green Bay

August 7, 2008 — The New York Jets have acquired QB Brett Favre from the Green Bay Packers. The announcement was made by Jets General Manager Mike Tannenbaum.

“I am looking forward to seeing Brett Favre in a New York Jets uniform,” said Jets Chairman & CEO Woody Johnson. “He represents a significant addition to this franchise, and reflects our commitment to putting the best possible product on the field. Mike Tannenbaum and his football administration staff did a great job of navigating this complex process. I am excited about welcoming Brett, Deanna and their family to the Jets organization.”

Favre (6-2/222/Southern Miss/Kiln, MS), a veteran of 17 NFL seasons, the last 16 in Green Bay, is the league’s all-time leader in touchdowns passes (442), completions (5,377), attempts (8,758), yards (61,655) and victories as a quarterback (160). Since Sept. 20, 1992, he has started 253 consecutive regular season contests (275 including postseason), leading the Packers to a record of 160-93 (.632).  During his 16 seasons in Green Bay, Favre has quarterbacked the Packers to 11 postseason appearances, seven division titles, four NFC Championship games and two Super Bowls, including a victory in Super Bowl XXXI. A three-time Associated Press Most Valuable Player (1995, 1996, 1997), he threw for 4,155 yards and 28 touchdowns in 2007, completing a career-high 66.5 percent of his passes. The 2007 campaign marked his fifth season with more than 4,000 passing yards as the Packers finished second in the NFL in total offense. The former Southern Miss signal-caller has logged 40 fourth-quarter comebacks, eight seasons with 30 or more touchdowns and 55 300-yard passing games. Favre was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the second round of the 1991 NFL Draft (33rd overall) and acquired by the Packers on Feb. 10, 1992 for the 17th overall pick in the 1992 NFL Draft. The Falcons traded that pick to Dallas, who selected CB Kevin Smith (Texas A&M).

J-E-T-S