Jets Secondary Approaching Patriots Game with Next Man Up Mindset

Before New York, Mills played five seasons with Eagles and three with the Patriots. In 2017 with Philadelphia, Mills started three playoff games including a 41-33 victory over the Patriots in Super Bowl LII. Despite only being in his fifth week with Jets defense, his experience has helped him make a smooth transition.

“[Mills] has got up to speed really quickly and good thing because we needed him last game in a big way,” Oliver said. “He is a super smart player, has great instincts and just knows a lot of ball. Most importantly he has played a lot of ball, and we have been able to lean on in him in the DB room.”

Mills added: “I think the coaching staff did a really good job. Every morning, I was in one-on-one meetings, understanding the details of the playbook, doing walkthrough practices and I feel like I pretty much have a good grasp of the defense.”

The Jets secondary could be closer to full strength against the Patriots as Reed and Carter II were full participants in Thursday’s practice. If they suit up, it will be the first game since Week 4 that the Jets would be at full strength at cornerback. If one, or both, can’t go, the Jets could have more shuffling in the secondary. The Jets could also be without Ashtyn Davis, who is in concussion protocol and has not practiced this week.

In addition to Oliver, the Jets have another player who has experience at cornerback and safety in second-year pro Jarrick Bernard-Converse, who played both positions over his college career at Oklahoma State and LSU. Bernard-Converse, who had a nice training camp, played safety last year for the Jets before the staff moved him back to CB.

“JBC is another guy that has been tasked with learning a lot of positions,” Oliver said. “I have been talking to him a lot and he has been asking a lot questions. He has got what I takes to player cornerback and safety and I am really excited for him to get his opportunities.”