Rookie defensive end Jarvis Jenkins showed he can rush the passer; or, at least, get upfield quick. But the one thing he didn’t do vs. Pittsburgh is what he was known for in college: stop the run.
Part of that has to do with staying low; too often Jenkins said he would be too upright. Jenkins’ helmet was often higher than the offensive linemen he was facing. And Jenkins’ knees weren’t bent enough, a stark contrast to nose tackle Barry Cofield.
“That’s the main thing,” Jenkins said. “I noticed when I got that pressure, I was lower. It’s going to take time but I’ll catch on real fast. I have to get lower and push them back.”
Defensive coordinator Jim Haslett said Jenkins is a better pass rusher than they expected.
“He’s a better pass rusher than you saw on tape,” he said. “He only had two sacks in four years at Clemson. When you ask why, it’s because it’s Daquan Bowers and he would cover for him. But he has the physical ability to be a good pass rusher in the league.”
Coach Mike Shanahan said, “He’s very physical. He works extremely hard. He’s very accountable, conscientious. He’s a good player and he keeps getting better. He’s very attentive. You can tell he has a lot of passion and work ethic.”
