Defensive Notes

Pass-rusher Calvin Pace figured to be a key player in the Jets' defense this season, playing the Terrell Suggs role in Rex Ryan's defense and likely leading the team in sacks. That appears less likely now: Pace has been suspended for the first four games of the season.

According to the NFL, Pace tested positive for a banned substance, which Pace said was in an over-the-counter dietary supplement. He apparently won't be appealing, and will be able to play during the preseason, but won't play in the regular season until the team's week 5 game.

The Jets upgraded their defense this offseason, adding linebacker Bart Scott, safety Jim Leonhard and cornerback Lito Sheppard. Combine that with new head coach Ryan, and we were comfortable ranking the Jets among the top 5 defenses on our board. Now, though, it won't be surprising if this defense underperforms in the first month or so of the season, and Pace himself will fall accordingly in our IDP rankings.

The story at NFL.com can be read right here.

Pace's absence could create an opportunity for the team's 2008 top pick, Vernon Gholston. Gholston flopped as a rookie and reportedly hasn't shown much in offseason activities, but the opportunity will be there for him to start during the season's first month -- if he can take advantage of it.

--Andy Richardson

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