FLORHAM PARK, N.J. – Like the five fingers that make up the hand, consistency and cohesion are integral parts of an offensive line, and arguably some of the hardest aspects to get right.
But for the five players on the Jets' starting offensive line, there’s an extra wrinkle. They practiced together for the first time on Tuesday. The center, Ryan Kalil, was retired a few months ago. And they’re tasked with protecting the most valuable asset in the franchise.
So, you know, time to learn quickly.
"There’s definitely going to be some growing pains, there’s no doubt about that,” Kalil said of the line, which Tuesday re-welcomed Brian Winters (shoulder) and Kelechi Osemele (chest).