If there's a high-profile player released by the New York Jets over the next 24 hours, it could be tight end Jace Amaro, a former second-round pick who has failed to live up to expectations.
This is news to Amaro, who told reporters late Thursday night, "I've never really been concerned about making the roster."
Amaro got off to a fast start in training camp, but he wasn't able to transfer his production to the games: Five catches (11 targets) for 35 yards, plus a couple of drops. He tweaked a groin muscle and missed last week's game, but he returned for the preseason finale, playing in 26 of 67 offensive snaps. He caught three passes for 24 yards.
During the game, general manager Mike Maccagnan told CBS TV that tight end is "the most wide-open position" on the roster. Translation: Anything can happen on the final cutdown. Incumbent Kellen Davis is a strong bet to make the team, but Amaro, Zach Sudfeld, Brandon Bostick and Wes Saxton are battling for one, maybe two spots.
Amaro apparently doesn't think he's in jeopardy.
"I don't think I've ever heard that from the coaches," Amaro said. "The only reason I really played a lot [Thursday night] is because I didn't play last week. I don't think it really had anything to do with being on the roster bubble or anything like that. I just came out here because I haven't played in such a long time, and just still getting the kinks out."
Remember, he missed last season with a shoulder injury.
Amaro believes he has been "pretty consistent on the practice field," adding, "Obviously, catching the ball out here is a little different than practice. I haven't played in so long. It's been almost a year and eight months, and getting the ball and then handling it. It's just getting that back and getting the feel of it."
