As the Jets mandatory minicamp kicked off in Florham Park on Tuesday, head coach Adam Gase probably knew going into his media session what kind of questions he would field.
While the GM search was on the list, the main questions revolved around Le'Veon Bell practicing with the team for the first time since he signed his deal this offseason. It's the reason for the very large media gathering for a June practice.
Being that this is his first practice session in 17 months, Gase knows that he needs to be cautious with how much work they give him over these next few days.
"We'll be smart since he hasn't been here," Gase said.
Bell, though, has been working hard -- as he always does -- in Miami this offseason. Working alongside his personal trainer Pete Bommarito, Bell is expected to be in great shape to hit the ground running (no pun intended).
But has he missed a lot sitting out of OTAs? Gase admitted Bell obviously missed some things, especially when it comes to learning how to mesh with his new teammates. But from a scheme standpoint, he knows the Pro Bowler will pick things up in no time.
"For us, when it's the first year of an offense and we're all trying to get used to each other, you lose a little bit," Gase explained. "But the good thing is with professional football players -- and this is what I've realized over the last 15 years -- they are quick studies. This is what they do."
Gase's offense will be deadly as long as he can utilize his dual-threat running back, which is why these next few days will likely see an extra bit of attention put on Bell. Gase explained how he will have to see what works and what doesn't when it comes to Bell, and that will come with a little time as he gets used to the new scheme.
"You're always trying to find different ways to defeat a defense," Gase said. "How are teams going to try to take him away in the passing game, in the running game...So every rep is going to be critical.
"In this system, it's an open book. It's how far can a player take us."
Bell is expected to bring the Jets far, with playoff hopes in sight starting this season. It's why he was their top free agent on the market, and they shelled out $52.5 million with $27 million guaranteed to have him over the next four years.
As all the hype surrounds his new running back, it will be up to Gase to tap into Bell's skillset to take the Jets' offense to new heights. It all starts today.