New York Jets coach Rex Ryan faces his stiffest test of the young season against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday. Subtracting cornerback Darrelle Revis from the equation won't help his chances.
Ryan told reporters Wednesday that Revis, his best defensive player, has been cleared for physical activity but not contact after suffering a concussion in a season-opening win against the Buffalo Bills.
Revis will not practice Wednesday and has been limited to running and lifting. The sixth-year veteran has attended meetings all week and Ryan described Revis as engaged and alert, an encouraging sign out of New York.
Ryan said the Jets would monitor Revis and follow league protocol before making a decision about his status for Sunday. A week ago, many predicted the Jets would march into Pittsburgh in a must-win scenario, but it's the 0-1 Steelers who now must beat the Jets to keep pace with the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC North.
Revis -- not unlike another Gotham defender of old, Lawrence Taylor -- is one of a handful of competitors who can alter an offense's entire scheme based on his presence. Pittsburgh will monitor his progress closely.
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