Rookie Hansen delivers in clutch

Chad Hansen’s stat line in the Jets’ win over the Chiefs last week was not that impressive — two catches, 25 yards — but it did not tell the whole story.

The two catches were big ones. Both came on third downs on scoring drives in the second half, and they signaled the rookie receiver from Cal is gaining confidence.

“Everybody says the game slows down once you understand what you’re doing. I think that’s definitely true,” Hansen said. “It’s been a grad- ual process, but over time it’s definitely slowed down because I’ve learned and understood what I’m supposed to be doing at all times.”

Hansen’s playing time has gone up since Jeremy Kerley’s PED suspension. Hansen looks more and more comfortable each week, and is starting to earn the trust of his quarterback and coach.

“The game isn’t too big for him, so as these guys get more experience and play more, they’ll get better and help us more,” coach Todd Bowles said.

Hansen, a fourth-round draft pick, barely played at the beginning of the season and was inactive in Week 3 against Miami. But with Kerley out, Hansen stepped in. The Jets moved Jermaine Kearse to the slot and had Hansen on the outside opposite Robby Anderson.

“I knew that’s how it goes for rookies,” Hansen said. “But I knew that I wasn’t OK with being inactive and having to sit by. I knew being patient is how it works. I knew that once I got my opportunity I had to make the most of it. I feel like I’ve done that over the past few weeks. I guess it’s paid off.”