The 2026 NFL Free Agency frenzy has settled, and teams are now combing through the remaining talent pool, hoping to snag some bargains. The New York Jets, with a hefty $75 million in cap space, have been busy addressing last season's defensive woes and bolstering their offensive line. They've even brought back a familiar face to lead the team at quarterback.
Let’s dive into how the Jets stack up now compared to last season and where they still need to improve.
Defensive Line
T’Vondre Sweat, Harrison Phillips, Jowon Briggs, Joseph Ossai, Kingsley Enagbare, Will McDonald, David Onyemata
The Jets made a bold move by trading for T’Vondre Sweat, a formidable nose tackle, in exchange for fan favorite Jermaine Johnson. Sweat’s presence is expected to anchor a defensive line that struggled mightily last year.
Joseph Ossai, who notched five sacks with the Bengals, joins Will McDonald to add some much-needed pass-rushing prowess. Enagbare and Onyemata round out the group with solid run-stopping abilities, addressing a critical weakness after Quinnen Williams' departure.
Looking ahead to the draft, the Jets are eyeing a top pass rusher with their second overall pick, likely between Ohio State’s Arvell Reese and Texas Tech’s David Bailey. While they could add more depth, this unit appears significantly stronger and less of a concern than last season.
Linebackers
Jamien Sherwood, Demario Davis, Kiko Alonso, Marcellino McCrary-Ball
The Verdict: Needs help
Bringing back Demario Davis was a savvy move, adding leadership and experience to the linebacker corps. At 37, Davis still plays at a high level and can mentor Jamien Sherwood, who had a tough time adjusting last season. Kiko Alonso showed potential as a rookie but was sidelined by injury, while McCrary-Ball remains more of a special teams contributor with discipline issues.
The Jets might eye Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles with their second pick, as he may not be available later. With limited options in free agency, the draft will be crucial for bolstering this group.
Secondary
Brandon Stephens, Azarey’eh Thomas, Nahshon Wright, Jarvis Brownlee Jr., Quantez Stiggers, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Dane Belton, Malachi Moore, Andre Cisco
The Verdict: Much Improved
The Jets’ secondary was a sore spot last season, but they’ve made significant upgrades. The standout acquisition is Minkah Fitzpatrick from the Dolphins, instantly elevating the safety position.
Dane Belton, underrated in the Giants’ secondary, could challenge Malachi Moore for a starting role alongside Fitzpatrick. Nahshon Wright, who led the league with five interceptions, is set to start opposite Brandon Stephens, who improved as last season progressed.
Jarvis Brownlee Jr. impressed as a slot corner before his injury, and Azarey’eh Thomas will be eager to prove himself after returning from injury.
With a strong draft class for safeties, the Jets might add another cornerback, but they now boast a promising mix of youth and veteran leadership.
Special Teams
Cade York (K), Austin McNamara (P), Thomas Hennessey (LS), Isaiah Williams (KR), Kene Nwangwu (KR)
The Verdict: Set…For now!
Chris Banjo did a stellar job with special teams last year, though the departure of Nick Folk, who was nearly flawless, leaves a gap. Cade York steps in with big shoes to fill, having not played a full season since 2022.
However, Banjo’s track record suggests he might just pull it off. With Isaiah Williams and Kene Nwangwu as dynamic returners, the Jets remain a threat to change games on special teams.
Still, the absence of an automatic kicker like Folk is a lingering concern.
Overall, the Jets have made meaningful strides, especially on defense and in the secondary. While challenges remain, particularly at linebacker, the team appears poised to make a significant leap forward this season.