Jets Dcoordinator Rodgers dealing with ‘serious’ illness

FLORHAM PA R K ,N. J. » New York Jets defensive coordinator Kacy Rodgers is dealing with what coach Todd Bowles calls a “serious” illness and it’s uncertain if he’ll be on the sideline for the game against Denver.

Bowles made the announcement Friday to end his news conference after the Jets’ final full practice before facing the Broncos at MetLife Stadium on Sunday.

“He’s a tough guy,” Bowles said. “It’s a serious thing.”

Rodgers and the Jets’ other coordinators usually meet with reporters every Thursday. But the team said Rodgers had an appointment with doctors and would speak Friday.

However, a visibly concerned Bowles announced Rodgers was sick and wasn’t at the facility.

“On a side note: Coach Rodgers couldn’t do his interviews today because he is ill of a nature we can’t discuss right now,” Bowles said. “We’ll see going forward where he is and go from there. He will not be here today, and he was not at practice.”

Bowles, a close friend of Rodgers, wouldn’t go into details about what is ailing the 49yearold coach. Rodgers is in his fourth season as the Jets’ defensive coordinator.

The players were told of Rodgers’ illness when the team met Friday morning.

“I want to let his family know that they are in my prayers and we will do our best to step up in his absence,” safety Doug Middleton said. “We all wish the best for him and we hope that he can make a strong recovery.”

It’s unclear who would handle the primary defensive play calls if Rodgers is unable to, though it could be Bowles and assistant head coach/linebackers coach Mike Caldwell.

“Everybody’s going to go about the game the same way, whether he’s there or if Coach Bowles takes over or whoever is taking over,” cornerback Darryl Roberts said. “I feel like everybody’s going to come out and play the same and just try to focus on executing and winning the game.”