showed up at training camp out of shape yet he was still the best player on a disappointing defensive line.
The Jets hope Jenkins can regain the form that made him one of the NFL's top defensive tackles before missing most of the 2004 and 2005 seasons with injuries. Jenkins came back in 2006 and made the Pro Bowl but his constant weight problems frustrated the coaching staff. He also irritated some within the Panther’s organization when he questioned his teammates' passion after a loss to Tampa Bay early in the season.
Jenkins is a no nonsense type of guy with a strong competitive streak who can become ornery when he doesn’t get his way. His competitiveness should endear him to Eric Mangini but he comes off as selfish, which might be a problem. The Jets place a high premium on character when they evaluate players, so it’s hard to believe they didn’t vet Jenkins extensively during their due diligence. Mangini is not usually drawn to selfish players, so perhaps Jenkin’s reputation was inaccurate.
To protect themselves, the Jets inserted contract language, which ensures Jenkins’ participation in offseason conditioning. Mike Tannenbaum was wise to include weight stipulations in the deal as well. Jenkins could be a player who just needed a change of scenery in order to get back on track. He never liked living in North Carolina. After initially living in the suburbs, he moved to Charlotte but never really settled into an area he liked.
The Jets signed Jenkins to a five-year, $30 million deal with $13 million in guarantees. He was selected by the Panthers in the second round of the 2001 draft and has been to three Pro Bowls. Although he has not played in the 3-4 before, he should be able to make the transition.
Jenkins is a monster. At 6-4, 335 lbs. he is the immovable object every 3-4 defense craves to plug the middle. Despite his size he is extremely athletic. He plays with good leverage and quickness and possesses impressive upper body strength. He is extremely tough and physical and can defeat the double team. For a big guy he has a great motor. He gets off the line of scrimmage quickly and effectively penetrates gaps. He is a good pass rusher for an interior lineman and his power rush can collapse the pocket against smaller linemen. Like many large defensive tackles, Jenkins struggles with his conditioning. He doesn't always possess a great work ethic with regard to his conditioning and has missed time in recent years as a result. His stamina likely will become an issue if he doesn't keep his weight under control.