Edwards, Sheppard Disappointed In Role

The New York Jets loss to the Indianapolis Colts 30-17 in the AFC Championship Game, and there were a couple of unhappy players on the Jets after the game. Wide receiver Braylon Edwards and defensive back Lito Sheppard both voiced their displeasure in their roles in the game. Edwards only had two catches for 100 yards, and Sheppard was told earlier in the week that Dwight Lowery would be starting in his place.

Edwards stated that he could've been more involved in the offense, and he also stated that the Jets could've scored more with him making big plays. Edwards caught a touchdown pass in the first half for the first score of the game for the Jets. However, he was a non-factor afterwards, only making one more catch and not having a catch in the second half.

Sheppard only played a limited role in the loss for the Jets. This was reminiscent of the NFC Championship Game last year between the Philadelphia Eagles and Arizona Cardinals. Sheppard was on the Eagles in that game, and he played a very limited role in that game as well. Sheppard is due a roster bonus on March, and it's possible the Jets could cut him before that bonus is due to him.

Edwards does not own the right to complain about his involvement in the offense because he has dropped countless passes this season. That's a problem he has to correct before Mark Sanchez is able to look his way more. The Jets offense did fail to score in the second half, but that isn't because of Edwards lack of involvement. It has to be frustrating for Sheppard because he felt he was getting a fresh start after voicing his displeasure on the Eagles last year and in the offseason. However, head coach Rex Ryan simply did what he felt was best for the defense to succeed.