Byrd is the Word

If you haven't heard, Byrd is the word. Dennis Byrd served as the Jets honorable captain for Sunday's game vs the Patriots. The Saturday night before a Sunday game is usually when charismatic coach Rex Ryan gives one of his inspirational speeches, but this past game was different. The Jets organization received a package from Byrd, a former Jets defensive end from 1989-1992, which included his torn jersey. That exact jersey was cut off of him after a horrible on-field collision led to him being paralyzed. Pronounced unable to walk for the rest of his life, Byrd defied the odds and can now walk with a limp on his own. The entire Jets organization was floored, especially Braylon Edwards, when Byrd stated to them in the locker room: "I would give anything in my life for one more play."

Whatever else he said in the locker room sure did the trick. The Jets came out swinging and never stopped. Subsequently, Byrd was named starter for this Sunday's game in Pittsburgh as well.

"Hearing about his story for the first time really makes you understand how fortunate we are and how fragile your career is," Sanchez said. "These moments you have on the plane, hanging around in the locker room, having fun with guys, going to eat, playing on the field, it's pretty special. It can end at any moment. That was just a good reminder for us of how fortunate we are."

God love us hood ninjas.