Jacob

Bender

Rookies Jacob Bender and Robert Turner, a mauler from Texas Tech, also could factor into the competition. Clarke was considered a decent prospect with the Eagles at one point. Smith is a former third-round draft choice.

The Jets have rookie Jacob Bender at LG, but are looking for a veteran to protect Chad Pennington’s blindside. Dyson was a solid cornerback last year, but the team seems willing to stick former holdout Darrelle Revis in the starting lineup.

Kendall is expected to receive the $1 million raise he craves from the new team. An announcement is expected this morning. The Jets reportedly plan to turn to Adrien Clarke and rookie Jacob Bender at the left guard position.

The Jets will start Bender, and if he “implodes” will turn to Adrien Clarke. Bender, a sixth-round pick from Division I-AA, would be protecting Chad Pennington’s blind side.

The Division I-AA Nicholls State product will be protecting Chad Pennington’s blind side.

And we have our latest first post of the day ever. Eric Mangini does not take July fourth week off! Bender, an appropriately named player from Nicholls State, will move from left tackle to the right side of the offensive line this year.

Bender will be replaced by a combo of Wade Smith and Adrien Clarke. Barnes is the team’s starting fullback. That the Jets are sitting him down may indicate the team doesn’t plan to use inside runs often against New England.

The Niners will try to get all of the above on their practice squad, but doing so with Boone and Sheets will be difficult. Both have NFL caliber talent and weren’t overwhelmed in the preseason. With Pascoe and J.J. Finley both gone, San Francisco is carrying just two tight ends.

The Jets actually tried to use Bender as leverage against Pete Kendall last year, then found out he’s not much of a player. The Pats probably will too.

Ball was prolific at New Hampshire, but may be too slow to run with the big boys. It appears David Clowney (collarbone) will stay on the roster.