New York Jets Trade for Braylon Edwards, Will He Bring His Hands?

Braylon Edwards wore jersey #1 at the University of Michigan, it was clear early on, the young receiver had confidence in his abilities. By the time his career in Michigan was finished, it was evident that the #1 on Edwards jersey, stood for the #1 receiver in all of college football. Edwards had a flare of making amazing catches and finding the end zone, finishing his career at Michigan, with 252 catches for, 3,542 yards and 39 touchdowns.

In the 2004 NFL draft, Edwards was disappointed he didn't go #2, to the Miami Dolphins, Ronnie Brown took that honor. Edwards went with the next pick, to the Cleveland Browns. I don't think Edwards ever got over that. Sometimes players with chips on their shoulders play better, for Edwards the chip turned into a crack and the relationship between the receiver and his team, ultimately shattered.

Now, Braylon Edwards is in New York. The Jets haven't had a receiver this brass since, Keyshawn Johnson. After speculation all off-season regarding the Jets obtaining another receiver, they finally got a deal down. Four weeks into the season, it became apparent the Jets 24th ranked offense could use some help. With their defense doing their best Baltimore Ravens impersonation, the Jets need to become a more complete team, and they're hoping Edwards can help them become that.

There are several reasons to be optimistic about Edwards ability to become a legit, successful, #1 receiver for the Jets. First, Edwards is happy to be out of Cleveland, and most people perform better at their job if they're happy. Secondly, Rex Ryan is a strong coach and he will be able to keep Braylon in line, or Braylon will be gone. Lastly, Edwards wants to succeed, he wants to prove how good he is and he wants to do it on a big stage, and it doesn't get much bigger then the Big Apple. The Jets have obtained another weapon for their young QB, Sanchez. Edwards, a former 1^st round pick, has all the abilities to become a big playmaker for New York. The Jets hope Sanchez to Edwards becomes a winning combination for years.

Edwards will need to work hard to learn the Jets offense, do some extra work with Sanchez to work on timing, and not get blinded by the bright lights of New York. Oh, and he has to catch the ball, something he forgot how to do in Cleveland.

Resources:

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/teams/new-york-jets/
http://www.michiganfansite.com/Michigan_Football_Player_Braylon_Edwards_64