Eric Smith Finding His Place on the Field

Has anyone else been impressed with Eric Smith this year? From early during his time at training camp to now, it’s clear that he’s gone from doubtful, as he admits in Mehta’s article in the Star-Ledger, to sold out for this coaching staff and his expanding role in the Jets defense. Smith played traditional safety for former coach Eric Mangini, occupying the deep part of the field. Ryan and Pettine, however, slid him into their “X” position, a hybrid safety/linebacker asked to move all over the place. Smith opened his mind and embraced the challenge. “This is really the first time I’ve moved around like that,” said Smith, who missed six games last season due to two concussions. “We kind of rotate through. Everybody ends up everywhere.” Smith had a pivotal pass breakup on third down during the Patriots’ final drive in the Jets’ Week 2 win over their AFC East rivals. He earned a game ball for his standout performa...