Jets LB Kwon Alexander's passion evident in first practice
Jets LB Kwon Alexander talks to press at Jets camp at Atlantic Health Jets Training Center in Florham Park, New Jersey on Aug. 1, 2022 Credit: Patrick E. McCarthy
FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — Kwon Alexander stuffed running back Zonovon Knight during team drills, then took a few steps toward the sideline and had some things to say to the offense.
This was Alexander’s first practice, and the Jets’ new linebacker wasted no time making his presence felt.
“He made a play in that last period, he did what Kwon does and made sure the other side of the ball knew about it,” Robert Saleh said. “It brought everybody to life. He’s a pleasure to be around. He’s A-plus.”
Alexander was signed last week to a one-year deal, and his knowledge of the system and pass-coverage skills make him a perfect fit for the defense. Alexander, who played for Saleh when he was the 49ers’ defensive coordinator, should compete for a starting job.
The former Pro Bowler said he received interest from the Giants and Saints before joining the Jets. Alexander is coming into this season motivated to prove that he still can play at a high level.
“I got a chip on my shoulder every time I come out there on the field,” he said. “I’m trying to be the best I can be. For me, I just got to get going. Once I get going, it’s going to be hard to stop me. That’s what I’m ready to do.”
By all accounts, Alexander joined the Jets in great shape. When they had him do drills after signing him, he said he told them “to ramp it up a little bit more.”
Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich said Alexander’s foot quickness, explosiveness, anticipation and instincts are at a high level and that he could be a difference-maker for the Jets.
“He’s got this infectious energy about himself,” Ulbrich said. “He’s got an edge to him. He’s got an ability to elevate people around him. To get that type of person in the building is awesome. It will make us better in practice. It will make us better in meetings. It will ultimately make us better on Sundays.”
When Ulbrich was asked if the Jets were missing that type of player last year, he said: “It’s always good to add that . . . It’s like Coke is really good. Coke with a little something in it is better.”
Alexander, who said reuniting with Saleh was a big reason he chose the Jets, expects to be able to lift his new teammates with his energy and passion.
“That’s my thing,” he said. “I really get the team going, have everybody out there be comfortable and be themselves. That’s what I’m here to do. I’m going to be myself regardless. I bring everybody with me and we’re going to do big things this year.”
Two-minute drill
Offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur said he’s been “super- pleased” with right tackle Mekhi Becton in his return from knee surgery and his transition to a new position . . . Tevin Coleman ran on a side field. He should be activated from the non-football injury list this week, Saleh said.
Al Iannazzone covers the Jets for Newsday after spending nearly two decades on the NBA beat with Knicks and Nets.
