Jets assistant finally agrees to interview, wearing rose-colored glasses

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- One week after being admonished by the organization for stiffing the media, a reluctant Pepper Johnson spoke to reporters Monday. He wasn't thrilled about it.

"I think it's all a waste of time," the New York Jets' defensive-line coach said, "but I came here to fulfill my obligations."

Assistant coaches are required to speak to the media at least once during the regular season. Johnson, who coaches one of the high-profile units on the team, painted a curiously rosy picture of the defensive line.

"These guys are playing very well," he said. "These guys made me defensive line coach of the year last season, and I think they're doing better than last year."

Johnson was…