Kellen Winslow 'content' with role in Jets offense, whatever that may be

Kellen Winslow returned to the Jets lineup Sunday against the Buffalo Bills. He was at Geno Smith’s disposal for the first time since Week 5 in Atlanta, before a violation of the NFL’s substance abuse policy cost the tight end four games.

At the time the suspension kicked in, Winslow led the Jets with 17 receptions. Against the Bills, though, he played a peripheral role in the offense. He participated in merely 11 of the Jets’ 58 offensive snaps and caught the only pass thrown his way for a gain of 17 yards.

Winslow hinted at frustration after receiving only 19 snaps in Week 5, his previous season-low. Today, though, he shrugged at his role in the offense -- perhaps even he doesn't know what to make of diminished playing time. Asked to define his responsibilities, Winslow said, “It's to help the younger guys. Whatever my job is, whenever they want me to go in and catch the ball, that's what I'll do.”

Winlsow stated before the season that he aimed for 100 catches, a target he has not reached in a nine-year career. He has slipped from the starting lineup, however, in part due to the chronic pain in his right knee which has cut down on his practice time.

Marty Mornhinweg, who calls the Jets’ plays from the sideline, told Winslow last week that he would receive between 10 and 15 snaps against the Bills. Jeff Cumberland, by contrast, played 47 snaps.

Rex Ryan said the Jets wanted to ease Winslow back into action, and that perhaps his snaps will increase next weekend in Baltimore.

“We’ll see what his role looks like in this upcoming game,” the Jets coach said. “At first, we’re trying to find out where he is. But we’ll see the kind of role he has.”

In the meantime, Winslow says he will remain patient.

“Whatever my role is to help the team, that's what's asked of me and that's what I'm doing,” Winslow said. “Things change during the season. People get hurt. Things change. I'm in the league and I'm happy. I'm feeding my family. I'm good. I'm content.”


(nj.com)