Skinner said he has approached the process with a chip on his shoulder, aiming to maximize each opportunity to prove to his coaches, teammates and even himself that he deserves the chance to compete.
His efforts haven't gone unnoticed. After co-leading the team in receiving yards vs. the Giants and making an impressive diving catch in the back of the end zone for the Jets' only touchdown of the game, HC Aaron Glenn was quick to name Skinner as a player who "really showed up." For OC Tanner Engstrand, the performance was a testament to repeated days of hard work the young player has put on tape throughout the summer.
"They've been consistent," Engstrand said Wednesday of Skinner and WR Brandon Smith. "They've shown to be able to go up and catch the ball. They've shown to be a big body target when the ball is thrown their way, and they're in the right areas. When the ball is thrown to them, they're making the play. The consistency has been really nice."
That consistency has been a point of pride for the 23-year-old Oklahoma native. Skinner said he has developed a strong connection and trust with QB Brady Cook throughout training camp and the preseason, and he spoke with the fellow undrafted free agent before the impressive fourth-quarter scoring drive. The pair of young players connected for 48 yards and the score on the possession, and the longest completion was for a 22-yard gain.
"Playmaker," Skinner said of how he would describe his game. "In any way, shape or form -- inside the slot, outside -- just being a playmaker. From route running, from high-pointing balls, from running deep with speed. I think being physical and blocking, too. I think I can check all the boxes. If they put trust in me to go do something, I'm going to go do it."