With a new voice calling the shots on defense, the New York Jets are looking for a much-needed reset in Week 16. Interim defensive coordinator Chris Harris steps into the role for the first time, taking over after a rough outing in Jacksonville that saw the Jets give up 48 points. Now, with the New Orleans Saints and rookie quarterback Tyler Shough on deck, Harris has a chance to steady the ship - and maybe even spark a turnaround.
The matchup presents a bounce-back opportunity, but it’s going to take more than just a new face on the headset. If the Jets are going to regain their defensive identity, they’ll need big performances from a few key players - guys who can tilt the field and change the tone of a game. Let’s break down three X-factors to watch on the defensive side of the ball this Sunday.
Jermaine Johnson II: Time to Turn the Corner
It’s been a tough stretch for Jermaine Johnson II. Once a rising force off the edge, Johnson hasn’t quite looked like himself this season - still working his way back from the Achilles injury that derailed his sophomore campaign. The explosiveness that defined his early career has been inconsistent, and the Jets have felt that absence in their pass rush.
But there’s still time for Johnson to flip the script. He’s under contract through next season on the fifth-year option, and a strong finish to this year could set the tone for a bounce-back 2026.
The Saints’ offensive line has had its share of struggles, and with a rookie quarterback under center, the opportunities will be there for Johnson to make a statement. If he can start stringing together some impactful snaps - pressures, hurries, maybe even a sack or two - it could go a long way in re-establishing his presence as a difference-maker.
Malachi Moore: Rookie Rising
Injuries have ravaged the Jets’ secondary. With Jarvis Brownlee, Tony Adams, Azareye’h Thomas, Andre Cisco, and Isaiah Oliver all on injured reserve, the depth chart has thinned out fast. That’s opened the door for rookie safety Malachi Moore, and so far, he’s making the most of it.
Moore led the team in tackles last week with nine - a sign that he’s not just filling a spot, but actively contributing. His instincts and range have stood out, especially in a defense that’s been searching for stability on the back end.
Against a Saints team that likes to test the middle of the field, Moore’s role becomes even more important. Expect him to be in the mix early and often, whether it’s in run support or helping contain tight ends and backs in the passing game.
Brandon Stephens: CB1 by Necessity, Not Choice
The trade that sent Sauce Gardner out of town left a massive void in the Jets’ secondary, and with the aforementioned injuries piling up, Brandon Stephens has found himself thrust into the No. 1 cornerback role. That’s a tall order - and it doesn’t get any easier this week.
Stephens is set to match up with Saints wideout Chris Olave, who’s quickly becoming one of the league’s more dangerous young receivers. Olave’s route-running, speed, and ability to separate make him a tough cover for any corner, let alone one still adjusting to a lead role.
For the Jets to have any shot at slowing down the Saints’ offense, Stephens is going to have to hold his own. That doesn’t necessarily mean shutting Olave down - few corners can - but limiting the damage, contesting catches, and avoiding big plays will be critical. If Stephens can rise to the occasion, it’ll go a long way in helping this defense find its footing again.
Bottom Line: Chris Harris has his hands full in his debut, but this isn’t a hopeless situation. The Saints are starting a rookie quarterback, and the Jets still have enough talent on defense to make life difficult - if the right players step up. Johnson, Moore, and Stephens each have something to prove, and Sunday’s game could be a defining moment in how this season - and their individual futures - unfold.