The New York Jets will conduct their second practice Wednesday, the first open to the media. As a preview, let's highlight eight players who have the most to prove this spring:

Bryce Petty, quarterback: After enjoying a free ride as a rookie, Petty will be under pressure to show improvement in Chan Gailey's system. No one expects him to challenge for the starting job this year, but he has to show something to secure a roster spot. It wouldn't look good if he lets the rookie -- Christian Hackenberg -- outperform him. Prediction: Petty will stay away from Madden references.

Bryce Petty (above) can't afford to let rookie Christian Hackenberg outperform him. Rich Schultz /Getty Images

Geno Smith, quarterback: It's his team until Ryan Fitzpatrick shows up (if he shows up), so this is like a second chance for Smith. He has avoided the media at various offseason events, so it'll be interesting to hear what he has to say about the Fitzpatrick campaign. A handful of teammates, those who once pledged their loyalty to him, have been publicly lobbying for Fitzpatrick's return.

Sheldon Richardson, defensive tackle: After last year's off-the-field issues, Richardson needs to be on his best behavior, demonstrating his commitment to the organization. The workouts are voluntary, but he should approach them as if they're mandatory.

Jace Amaro, tight end: Gailey was asked recently about what he expects from Amaro, who missed last season with a shoulder injury. The offensive coordinator all but threw up his hands, saying he has no idea. This could be a make-or-break season for the former second-round pick.

Lorenzo Mauldin, outside linebacker: Believe it or not, he's the most experienced outside linebacker on the roster, based on career defensive snaps (244). Yowza! Suffice it to say, the Jets need Mauldin to be more than a situational pass-rusher in his second year.

Dee Milliner, cornerback: He can prove something by staying out of the trainer's room. Another injury could exhaust the organization's patience.

Darron Lee, linebacker: At Ohio State, he was an outside linebacker in a 4-3 scheme. Now he has to learn the inside position in a 3-4. Big difference. The first-round pick is expected to contribute immediately in the nickel package.

Buster Skrine, cornerback: In four seasons with the Cleveland Browns, Skrine played more on the outside (1,417 snaps) than in the slot (1,134). The Jets used him primarily in the slot last year, but he'll go back to playing outside in the base defense. That may require a transition period.