JET NOTES
SAN DIEGO – Defensive end John Abraham and wide receiver Wayne Chrebet were downgraded to questionable yesterday, on the eve of the Jets’ wild card playoff game against the Chargers.
The two had been listed as probable all week, but coach Herman Edwards cast doubt on their situation Thursday, when he said the status of both players would be a game-time decision. Abraham has missed the last month with a sprained right knee, and said earlier this week he would only play if he were feeling 80 percent or better.
Chrebet sustained a mild concussion last weekend against the Rams. The 10-year veteran has a history of concussions, and missed the final eight games of last season with postconcussion syndrome.
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Linebacker Jonathan Vilma was named Defensive Rookie of the Year yesterday by The Associated Press.
Vilma, the 12th pick in last year’s draft, was the lynchpin to the Jets’ revamped defense that includes speed and explosiveness. After Sam Cowart was injured in Week 2, Vilma began starting and never relinquished the position, finishing with 116 tackles, two sacks, three INTs and a forced fumble.
“When I first came here, I told a lot of the media that I’d prepare and play as if I’m a starter,” Vilma said. “I got my opportunity, I got my chance, so it was just a matter of getting the experience. I didn’t have to change any of my ways or my habits.
“I’m definitely excited about whoever is taking notice of how I play,” Vilma said, when asked about being voted as the top rookie defensive player. “Roman Phifer of the Patriots told me he likes the way I play. That means a lot being a rookie. Kevin Faulk came up to me, said he liked the way I played. Whenever veterans come up to you and tell you that, it’s always very flattering and makes you feel good. If they say I’m doing good, then I must be doing something right.”
Texans cornerback Dunta Robinson was second, followed by Broncos linebacker D.J. Williams and Redskins safety Sean Taylor. Williams and Taylor were teammates of Vilma’s at Miami.
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LaMont Jordan, who figures to get a lot of playing time today, particularly because of the rain and wind in the forecast, said he’s being fueled by the doubting from the media and fans.
“I’m letting the fact that people aren’t giving us a chance to win this game motivate me,” he said. “I’ve read the papers and that’s the stuff that’s going to fuel us. It’s something that’s going to fuel me.” . . .
Curtis Martin’s 117 rushing yards against the Chargers in Week 2 is the most any back has rushed for against the San Diego defense, ranked No. 3 against the run.
“They are an entire different team,” he said. “Both teams have matured. They are playing a lot better together. They have gained the chemistry that it didn’t seem as though they had when we first played them.”
– The Associated Press contributed to this report.