FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — The New York Jets are gearing up for practice with a focus on improving their tackling technique, which has been a significant issue this season. Interim coach Jeff Ulbrich announced that players would be donning pads during individual drills on Wednesday and again on Thursday for the full session, following a disappointing performance where the team recorded 20 missed tackles in their recent 31-6 defeat to the Arizona Cardinals, according to Next Gen Stats.
Ulbrich emphasized the importance of reverting to fundamental skills, stating, “If there are 15 minutes in individual drills, it’s going to be 14 and a half minutes dedicated to tackling.” He stressed that the team would work on the basics to address the issues they are facing. The tackling woes were outlined as “egregious” by Ulbrich earlier in the week, leading him to conduct a tackling presentation for the entire squad—not just the defensive players—as they prepare to face the Indianapolis Colts at home this Sunday.
Tackling has consistently been a challenge for the Jets’ defense this season, contributing to their troubling 3-7 record. Their match against the Cardinals showcased three consecutive 70-yard touchdown drives, during which they missed key opportunities to halt their progress. Ulbrich noted that many incoming players from college lack a solid understanding of effective tackling techniques. He pointed out common issues such as inadequate leverage, jumping into tackles too soon, and failing to properly wrap up ball carriers.
He mentioned that each player’s tackling style should be adapted to their physical characteristics, leading to customized tackling plans. However, the NFL’s collective bargaining agreement restricts teams to only 14 padded practices throughout the regular season, limiting their ability to focus on tackling in a physical manner.
“While it may be slightly more challenging due to the restrictions on padded practices, we can still cover all essential fundamentals,” Ulbrich explained. “We will continue to work on encapsulating the strike zone, targeting the tackle area, and completing the wrapping technique.” He firmly believes there is room for improvement and is determined that the team will make progress in their tackling ability.
Additionally, Ulbrich touched on the necessity of safeguarding players during practice to prevent injuries. “It’s challenging as we try to simulate full-speed tackling while being conscious of safety,” he remarked. “When practices involve going to the ground, it can raise the risk of injuries for both the tackler and the tackled. We need to find a sustainable balance that allows us to practice effectively while minimizing injury risks.”
In terms of injuries, Ulbrich reported that wide receiver Davante Adams would not participate in Wednesday’s practice, primarily due to illness and a sore wrist. Offensive tackle Tyron Smith is also sidelined with a neck issue and is still undergoing evaluation. Other players not practicing include linebacker C.J. Mosley (neck), defensive lineman Solomon Thomas (knee), cornerback Brandin Echols (concussion), and offensive lineman Jake Hanson (hamstring). On a more positive note, the Jets have opened the practice window for safety Chuck Clark, who is recovering from an ankle injury and is currently on injured reserve.