Jets rookie LB: Bring on Brady

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — Jets rookie linebacker Jordan Jenkins will have no problem getting excited for Saturday’s game with the Patriots. Just one look to the other sideline will do it.

“It’s a game you’re always going to get up for. Growing up as a kid, you see Tom Brady everywhere,” Jenkins said. “You see him on all the magazines and him being one of the greatest quarterbacks in the game. You have to get up for this game. Playing against the best of the best, you want to go out there at 100 miles per hour and play your best.”

Jenkins, who is just 22 years old, was 7 when Brady won his first Super Bowl. When the Patriots came to MetLife Stadium last month, it hit Jenkins that he was facing some legendary players.

“I remember during the pregame I was really excited because I looked over and I see [Rob Gronkowski] and I see Brady,” Jenkins said. “I re- member seeing Gronk raging on some cruise or whatever, and he is so dominating. It’s a game I’m always going to be able to get up for.”

Jenkins has been a bright spot in a dark season for the Jets. He missed the first two games of the season with a calf injury, but has steadily improved. He recorded his first solo sack last week, giving him 1.5 this season.

“I feel like I’ve grown a lot,” the third-round pick out of Georgia said. “Going into the Miami game last week I was looking at the first Miami game and I said that doesn’t even look like the same guy. I’m playing more aggressive.

“I’m just playing a little bit more under control.”

RB Matt Forte (knee, shoulder) is listed as doubtful. Forte, who has been playing with a torn meniscus in his right knee, injured his shoulder last week against the Dolphins. Forte described it as a nerve issue. Jets coach Todd Bowles said Forte would be a gametime decision.

OLB Lorenzo Mauldin (ankle) and DT Steve McLendon (hamstring) were ruled out. … WR Brandon Marshall (shoulder, back), RB Khiry Robinson (lower leg) and DE Muhammad Wilkerson (ankle) are listed as questionable.