New York Jets coach Rex Ryan knows slowing down New Orleans Saints tight end Jimmy Grahamon Sunday is key. Graham is such a weapon that Ryan said he's even considered deploying cornerback Antonio Cromartie to defend the Saints star.
"It's a thought," Ryan said Thursday, per the New York Daily News. "I think from a size and skill-wise (standpoint), yeah, I think he could handle it. But that guy is a unique cat now. Graham has the speed of a receiver (and) the size of an offensive tackle."
The New England Patriots used cornerback Aqib Talib to shut down Graham in Week 6.
Safeties and linebackers generally cover tight ends, but using a cornerback on a playmaker like Graham isn't new -- nor did Patriots coach Bill Belichick invent the concept earlier this year.
Cromartie's size (6-foot-2) would allow him to compete with Graham, especially on jump balls in the red zone.
If Cromartie mirrors Graham, that will leave rookie Dee Milliner, Kyle Wilson and Darrin Walls to cover receivers Marques Colston, rookie Kenny Stills and the rest of Drew Brees' gang. We know how lethal Brees can be spreading the ball around.
We handed out our Midseason Hero Awards in the latest "Around the League" Podcast.
