Buffalo Bills head coach Rex Ryan complimented linebacker IK Enemkpali for his improvement heading into the 2016 season.
Enemkpali is fighting to maintain a roster spot and while Ryan was uncertain of his roster status, the linebacker is giving his all to remain on the team.
The 24-year-old is best known for an incident while he was a member of the New York Jets, when he punched Geno Smith in the face, breaking his jaw. Enemkpali was immediately released, and the Bills signed him shortly thereafter.
Looking to shed his reputation, Enemkpali won praise from his head coach.
"I'm not sure, but he’s pushing. He's pushing hard,” Ryan said of Enemkpali to the Bills' official website. "He looks pretty good to me. He’s really improved from a mental standpoint. Sometimes you’re overwhelmed as a rookie, but I think he’s taken off. He's a physical player. He knows exactly what he’s doing, and you’re seeing a better player on the field."
Enemkpali will need to continue to improve if he is to see meaningful playing time in 2016, but gaining Ryan's continued endorsement is certainly a net positive.
