Apple excited for test vs. Jets’ duo

The watching was the hardest part for Eli Apple.

The rookie cornerback, a f irst-round draft pick from Ohio State, will return Saturday night to play against the Jets after missing the preseason game at Buffalo with a left knee injury suffered in the opener against the Dolphins. Apple spent several days standing on the sidelines during practice, a place he did not want to be. That is why he admitted it is “very important’’ for him to get back onto the

field for this game. “You want to show your teammates that you’re a physical player and you can play in this league,’’ Apple said. After working some in the slot position — an unfamiliar role for him — Apple mostly lined up at left cornerback in the latter stages of training camp, and that is where he is likely to wind up at the beginning of his NFL career. Apple is not a starter, but he will play in sub-packages within the defense. “It’s helped because you can just focus on one thing and just master what the coaches are trying to tell you to do,’’ Apple said. “I pride myself still on being versatile. If they ask me to go in the slot, I’ll definitely do it 100 percent. Right now I’m just trying to master outside corner.’’

Apple is hoping he gets a shot at covering Brandon Marshall or Eric Decker and f igures getting a look at Marshall will be excellent preparation in case he has to line up against Dez Bryant in the season opener.

“They’re two of the best combo receivers out there in the league for sure,’’ Apple said. “Brandon Marshall is a big physical guy. Decker is a great route runner and is also pretty physical. They’re definitely going to help get us ready for the season.’’

This game could go a long way toward de- termining who wins the starting middle linebacker job. Jasper Brinkley and Kelvin Sheppard are “neck and neck’’ according to defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. It is the only starting spot up for grabs on defense. “It’s been a great battle,’’ Spagnolo said. “Two guys that respect each other and that’s what the league is all about. The more you can get that at every position the better you’re going to be.’’

Rookie safety Darian Thompson (shoulder) is out and Nat Berhe is the likely replacement as a starter alongside Landon Collins. The depth at safety is “in flux right now,’’ Spagnuolo said. … Former Giants safety Ant

rel Rolle watched practice on Friday. This was a social visit. Rolle, 33, remains unsigned after he was released by the Bears.