New York Jets second-year receiver Stephen Hill is coming off a disappointing rookie campaign in which he posted just over 250 yards and three scores, so this offseason he is taking the time to toughen up by practicing and training with Jets cornerback Antonio Cromartie.
Instead of taking part in Mark Sanchez’s annual “Jets West” camp in California, Hill is using the time to learn the ways of the NFL from Cromartie, who he says inspired him with his work ethic last year (per Mike Vorkunov of The Star Ledger):
"Basically, the biggest difference is that I’m going to train with (Antonio Cromartie) and get that good training in. Other than that, I’m just looking forward to just being in the midst of everything and going against the defense when they’re giving us looks I’ve never seen before. They’ve done a great job, they’re definitely pushing us.Coach Dennis told me to go out there. I was like ‘OK, I guess that’s what I’m going to have to do.’ And I saw the way Cro, during camp last year, I saw his work ethic and how he lasted all year without missing practice. I know that’s what I need. I really need that type of workout."
Hill has a long way to go before he makes a major impact with the Jets (his iff quarterback situation isn’t helping things). That said, his head appears to be in the right place as he is looking to veterans for the proper way to learn the NFL game.
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