The temptation after one preseason game is to treat every depth-chart movement as a major development. The New York Jets would probably caution against that.
The Jets opened their preseason schedule against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and one of the many things that stood out immediately was that Isaiah Williams took the field with Garrett Wilson and Adonai Mitchell as the starting wide receiver trio.
The alignment suggested Williams currently sits ahead of first-round pick Omar Cooper Jr. in the wide receiver rotation, a notable development considering where each player entered training camp. ESPN noted after the game that Williams had leapfrogged Cooper on the depth chart. That doesn't necessarily mean the battle is over. In fact, Friday may have illustrated why the Jets can afford to remain patient with Cooper's development.
Williams has earned his opportunities. The veteran has drawn praise throughout training camp and has consistently appeared in conversations about standout performers. His ability to contribute as both a receiver and return specialist gives him value beyond the offensive depth chart, and his preseason start reflected the trust he has built with the coaching staff.
Cooper, meanwhile, hardly looked overwhelmed. The rookie finished with two receptions on three targets for 31 yards, including a 26-yard gain that showcased the playmaking ability that convinced the Jets to select him in the first round. While his camp has been described as somewhat uneven, there have also been reminders of the talent that made him one of the organization's most intriguing additions this offseason.
It's also important to remember what preseason football is — and what it isn't. Teams run simplified schemes, starters play limited snaps and coaches often use games to evaluate specific situations rather than establish permanent depth charts. One August lineup rarely tells the entire story.
The more meaningful takeaway may be that the Jets don't appear to be forcing Cooper into a role before he's ready. Williams has given them a reliable option while the rookie continues adjusting to the NFL game.
If Cooper continues building on what he showed against Tampa Bay, the gap could shrink quickly. For now, however, Williams appears to have earned the early edge, and the Jets seem perfectly comfortable allowing their first-round receiver to develop at the proper pace rather than rushing the process.
This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: Jets appear patience with Omar Cooper Jr. because of one teammate