The New York Jets are turning back the clock in 2026, welcoming familiar faces to their roster. Geno Smith is set to take the helm as quarterback following a trade with the Las Vegas Raiders, and linebacker Demario Davis returns on a two-year deal.
Davis, who began his career with the Jets, made a name for himself with the New Orleans Saints, earning All-Pro honors. Now, he's back in New York, placing his trust in coach Aaron Glenn.
Davis expressed his confidence in Glenn, saying, “Ships go into daylight because you hold on & hold steady through the storm. … He has the vision, he has the mission. All we've got to do is hold this thing steady & we’re going to come out the other side & I think it’s going to shock the world.”
Davis' journey with the Jets started in 2012, spanning four seasons before a brief stint with the Cleveland Browns. His standout performance with the Saints solidified his reputation, earning multiple All-Pro selections. Glenn, who worked with Davis as a defensive backs coach in New Orleans, sees the linebacker as a key figure to rally the locker room after a challenging season.
Last season, the Jets' defense struggled, failing to secure any interceptions. While Davis might not directly address this issue, his leadership could be pivotal.
The Jets are also eyeing a defensive overhaul, potentially drafting an edge rusher with their second overall pick. Names like Arvell Reese, David Bailey, and Rueben Bain Jr. are in the mix.
As Glenn heads into his second season, the pressure is on to revamp the defense. With Davis back in the fold and new talent on the horizon, the Jets are poised for a fresh start, aiming to make significant strides on the defensive side of the ball.