Waiting for Chris Herndon to make an impact for the banged-up Jets could be a test of one’s patience. If the Jets can’t get Herndon going this Sunday in Indianapolis, it’ll be time for another pulse-check.
Just two weeks into the season, the Jets injury report resembles the waiting area of a M.A.S.H. unit. It’s a who’s who of names on this week’s report, specifically at the wide receiver position.
Head coach Adam Gase informed the media that Jamison Crowder is doubtful for this Sunday against the Colts; the wideout is dealing with a hamstring issue. Breshad Perriman has been unable to practice due to an ankle injury. Meanwhile, it’s a rib injury for Chris Hogan that’s limited his practice time.
It’s understandable that Gase, who’s had enough bad press this week, would be looking for anyone on the roster that can just catch a football.
“Whoever’s got a pulse right now, we’re ready to go,” Gase said of the team’s injury issues at wide receiver during media availability at practice.
Well, has anyone seen Chris Herndon? Because now would be an ideal time for the Jets to get a productive game from their talented tight end.
In this past Sunday’s 31-13 nightmare loss to the 49ers, Herndon finished with just one catch for five yards. He was targeted four times, one of those was a dropped pass in the end zone.
Where’s former Yankees’ manager Joe Girardi when you need him? Because Herndon’s performance so far this season has that familiar “it’s not what you want” feeling.
While it’s true Herndon had six catches for 37 yards the week before against Buffalo, he also lost a fumble in that game.
Just two games into the season, the condition of this team is critical. The Jets need to get themselves in the win column. They can’t do that with a lethargic offense that only specializes in futility.
Yes, Herndon is shaking off some rust from missing most of last season with injuries. And, yes, the Jets have needed to keep him closer to the line for help with pass protection. But it’s time to let it fly, not find more reasons to justify the ineffectiveness.
Over the summer, Crowder singled out Herndon as a potential X-Factor for the Jets. It hasn’t happened yet.
Gase and quarterback Sam Darnold need to find a way to get Herndon the football early and often against the Colts.
Remember, potential only gets you in the room; it doesn’t give you a permanent seat at the table. The Jets need Herndon to get back on track, he needs to get back to becoming a go-to target for Darnold, like in 2018.
Anything else for this team, at this critical point in the season, is unacceptable.
