Jets head coach Rex Ryan believes that defensive end Vernon Gholston will be a major contributor for the club this fall.
"I think he'll have to earn his role no matter what it is," Ryan said, according to ESPN. "Whether he is a starter? Is he this? Is he that?
"I know one thing: He is going to be a major contributor for us."
He was highly touted as a rookie out of Ohio State, and the Jets gave him a five-year contract with $21 million in guarantees.
However, Gholston finished 2008 with one solo tackle.
"I am really excited about Vernon," Ryan said. "I think he is where I thought he would be right now in this stage. He is working and getting better every day."
Ryan: Gholston Will Be 'Major Contributor'