FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- Sunday's wake-up call, Day 18 of New York Jets training camp:
What's happening: Practice is open to the public (with a ticket) and begins at 1:50 p.m.
What's hot: Ryan Fitzpatrick gets criticized for not having a big arm, but he unleashed a beautiful long pass Saturday, hitting Eric Decker for a 55-yard touchdown. Some players, including Decker, have talked about improving the deep passing game. In 2015, the Jets were one of the most ineffective teams when it came to throwing long. "I think it surprised [Decker] because such a noodle-arm quarterback threw it that far," Fitzpatrick said, mocking his critics. ... The extreme heat was the main topic of conversation after Saturday's sweltering practice. The heat index exceeded 100, but Todd Bowles kept the players on the field for the usual amount of time -- two hours, 30 minutes. Fitzpatrick estimated he drank about 10 bottles of water. They took more water breaks than usual, according to Bowles, an old-school coach who doesn't mind the heat and humidity. When he played, back in the 1980s, Bowles had two-a-days practices. Those days are gone, so he has no sympathy for the current players. "It's the dog days of camp," he said. "It's what you get." Fitzpatrick said some players changed their shoes during practice ("A quick oil change," he called it) because they got so wet with sweat.
Four starters remained on the sideline with injuries -- running back Matt Forte (hamstring), right tackle Breno Giacomini (back), defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson (leg) and nose tackle Steve McLendon (toe). Wilkerson still hasn't participated in team drills since being removed from the physically-unable-to-perform list. Forte hasn't practiced at all. Bowles said he's not sure when Forte will return, calling it "day-to-day or week-to-week." He could be in jeopardy of missing the second game. ... Linebacker David Harris, excused from practice for a personal reason, is expected back. ... Guard James Carpenter (leg) and wide receiver Kenbrell Thompkins (groin) returned to practice. ... The running back position took another hit, as Romar Morris left with a shoulder injury. An overzealous Rontez Miles drilled him in a team drill.
