2004 FANTASY FOOTBALL TEAM PREVIEW: NEW YORK JETS
BY RICK SERRITELLA 7/11/04

Quarterback: Chad Pennington has become a rising star and promises
to have a bright future in the NFL but fantasy owners should be a
little weary about the fact that he has never gone through an entire
NFL season. Two years ago he experienced his coming out party after
taking over for Vinny Testaverde as the Jets starter four games into
the season and last year he fractured his wrist causing him to sit
out the first six games. Despite his past history I honestly believe
that Pennington will remain healthy and have his finest fantasy
season yet.

Running Back: Curtis Martin seemed to get stronger as the season
wore on last season putting an end to rumors that his career was
beginning to head in a downward spiral. He became just the second
running back ever to rush for 1,000 yards in nine consecutive seasons
with Barry Sanders being the other. With all the accomplishments
though, Martin is just an average fantasy back. Back up Lamont
Jordan is expected to see an expanded role in the offense this season
after publicly griping to the media about his lack of touches. The
Jets would like to keep him satisfied in hopes of being able to re-
sign him after the season.

Wide Receiver: The Jets challenged Santana Moss to step up and
replace the departed Laveranues Coles as their number one receiver
and the former first round pick didn't disappoint. He posted career
highs in receptions (74), yardage (1,105) and touchdowns (10). Moss
has emerged as a rising star himself and will team with Pennington to
provide a lethal passing combo. The Jets added Justin McCareins in a
trade with the Titans and have penciled him in as their other
starter. He too had his finest season as a pro and should be a
decent source for fantasy production. Wayne Chrebet who is
recovering from a career threatening neck injury will compete with
rookie Jerricho Cotchery as the team's third receiver.

Tight End: This is a tricky position to evaluate with the recent
signing of Michael Ricks. Anthony Becht has been a major
disappointment during his Jets career which probably helped
contribute to the signing of Ricks. Third year man Chris Baker
seemed like he was headed for a larger role but seems stuck behind
two veterans. Avoid this situation entirely and search elsewhere at
the tight end position.

Fantasy Stud: Santana Moss – An electrifying wide out who will put
up some lights out numbers.

Fantasy Dud: Anthony Becht – Still favored to be the starter but
will see his playing time drastically reduced with the addition of
Ricks and the emergence of Baker.

Fantasy Sleeper: Lamont Jordan – If you can afford to draft him and
be patient as one of your reserves he may just pay happy dividends.
Martin has taken a beating and there is a high possibility of an
injury to occur which would elevate Jordan's value greatly.