The Associated Press is reporting that New York Jets defensive linemen Mike Devito and Sione Pouha are planning workouts for their teammates. From the Associated Press:
The Jets’ defensive linemen have been lifting weights and running while the NFL’s labor dispute drags on. Well, now they’re ready to hit something.
Sione Pouha and Mike DeVito told The Associated Press on Saturday they plan to gather in New Jersey sometime next week with the team’s other defensive linemen, including Ropati Pitoitua and possibly first-round pick Muhammad Wilkerson and third-rounder Kenrick Ellis.
“We were talking and it was like, ‘Dude, we’ve got to put something together,'” Pouha said. “All of us have been lifting and running and working out. That’s one thing. Doing actual drills, making blocking reads and punching sled bags, well, that’s another thing.”
The players have made arrangements to bring in blocking sleds and add the physical element they’ve been missing in the absence of organized team activities because of the lockout. They also might review defensive plays from last season and reacquaint themselves with one another.
“It’s great to get together as a unit,” DeVito said, “so that we can start working together, getting our rhythm and timing right and to work that unity that is so important to have if you want a great defensive line.”
I think it is great to see some of the younger players take on a leadership role with the Jets. It will be interesting to see how many, if any, of the veteran players show up. I, for one, would love to see Shaun Ellis make an appearance. I know it is wishful thinking, as Ellis was released by the Jets, but you never know. At the same time I would not be surprised to see guys like Bart Scott and David Harris stop by and help run some drills.