Finally, a little breath of fresh air from the Jets’ locker room.
And to think, it came from a Patriots’ long-time nemeses. Jets linebacker Jason Taylor, who has played 13 of his 14 NFL seasons in the AFC East, took a pass Wednesday when asked about New England quarterback Tom Brady.
Taylor, a long-time member of the Dolphins who is in his first season with the Jets, has recorded 13 career sacks against the Patriots, and he’s made life tough on Brady and Pats left tackle Matt Light.
Yet, Taylor wouldn’t immerse himself into the hoopla that has hijacked this Patriots-Jets week. And not only that, but Taylor also brought an old-school philosophy to the table. When asked about Brady’s on-field demeanor — basically, the celebrations that Jets cornerback Antonio Cromartie hates — Taylor took a throwback approach.
“I know people talk about [Brady] celebrating, or whatever or pointing at the sideline,” Taylor said. “I’ve heard things about that. And he was pretty demonstrative when we played him up there [in Week 13] and when they scored a touchdown. I come from the school of thought where if you don’t want someone to celebrate, or be excited, or say something to you or do something that you might perceive as offensive, then don’t let them score, and they won’t do that.
“I respect Brady as a person, No. 1, and as a competitor, and I think the things he’s done on the field this year have been nothing short of amazing. And the guy plays with a lot of passion, and as an athlete, you can appreciate that. If he’s not on your team, obviously it’ll tick you off. But again, if you keep him out of the end zone, you won’t be offended by him.”
