--Despite his size, 5-7 1/2 free agent running back Danny Woodhead wasn't in Jets' rookie minicamp as a mere curiosity. The North Platte, Neb., native rushed for an NCAA career all-divisions record 7,962 yards at Division II Chadron (Neb.) State and twice won the Harlon Hill Trophy as the top Division II player.
"When you have that kind of production," coach Eric Mangini said, "I think that's hard to do, whatever level you're at.
"He's hard to find [on the field] for a couple of reasons," Mangini added with a smile, "the obvious one and he's pretty quick and pretty elusive."
But even somebody small will have a hard time squeezing into the Jets' already crowded backfield, so Woodhead realizes he must do other things to be noticed. Toward that end, he returned punts over the weekend, something he didn't do at Chadron State, except in practice "to kind of remind me how to do it again. I'm comfortable catching [kickoffs] and catching punts. ... I just want to keep on playing, just like every other guy in this locker room."
As for perhaps being too small to make it, he said, "I've never gotten caught up in it. It's never bothered me. I'm fine with how I am. So I'm just going to work hard."
--The Jets re-signed cornerback Hank Poteat, an eight-year veteran who was an unrestricted free agent, to a one-year contract at the veteran minimum of $730,000. Poteat, who hadn't drawn much interest on the open market, has started 15 games over the last two seasons and should have a chance to reclaim his starting spot at right corner opposite Darrelle Revis. Other candidates for the position include veterans David Barrett, Justin Miller and Andre Woolfolk, a street free agent who was once a first-round draft pick of the Bengals.
Whoever gets the job could just be keeping the seat warm for fourth-round draft choice Dwight Lowery, who may eventually project as the starter. Poteat had a career-high two interceptions last season.
--The Jets signed rookie free agent offensive lineman Shawn McMackin of Hofstra, who was one of 34 tryouts at their three-day rookie mini-camp. The 6-3, 287-pounder is thought to be a late bloomer, and scouts like his athleticism. He was a tackle in college but also worked at guard and center during the weekend. The Jets could use backup help at center. Wade Smith, the reserve at that position last season, left for Kansas City via free agency.
QUOTE TO NOTE
"There's only so many numbers you get to choose from as a linebacker. For now it's my number. Whatever comes in the future, I'm waiting to see." -- First-round Jets' draft pick Vernon Gholston on having No. 56, made famous for pass rushers by the Giants' legendary Lawrence Taylor
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