The New York Jets are set to finalize their 53-man roster by Sunday's 6 p.m. deadline, a critical cutdown day that marks the end of training camp and the preseason. While the Jets do not have a large number of open competition spots, the decisions remain challenging for Head Coach Aaron Glenn and General Manager Darren Mougey.
"This is always the toughest part of the year for any coach, and I don’t care how long I’ve been in this league, it’s always tough," Glenn stated following the team's preseason finale against the Giants. "This league goes on and you have to make these cuts and try to build your team to where it needs to be."
Quarterback
The Jets are projected to carry two quarterbacks: Geno Smith and Cade Klubnik. The team may consider adding a third veteran quarterback, although Klubnik is expected to be ready for limited action if needed. The available veteran options on the open market are not considered particularly appealing.
Running Back
Four running backs are expected to make the roster: Breece Hall, Braelon Allen, Isaiah Davis, and Kene Nwangwu. Hall and Davis are recovering from injuries but are anticipated to be ready for Week 1.
Wide Receiver
Six wide receivers are predicted to secure roster spots: Garrett Wilson, Adonai Mitchell, Omar Cooper Jr., Isaiah Williams, Tim Patrick, and Arian Smith. Smith's value on special teams is noted as a key factor in his projection over other camp standouts like Malik McClain and Cam Camper. Patrick's absence from the preseason finale suggests his place on the roster is secure.
Tight End
The team is expected to carry four tight ends: Kenyon Sadiq, Mason Taylor, Jeremy Ruckert, and Jelani Woods. Woods has reportedly earned a roster spot, and the team may opt to cut fullback Andrew Beck, with Ruckert and Woods capable of filling that role.
Offensive Line
Nine offensive linemen are projected: Olu Fashanu, Dylan Parham, Josh Myers, Joe Tippmann, Armand Membou, Max Mitchell, Chukwuma Okorafor, Xavier Newman, and Anez Cooper. The depth in this unit is considered light, which could lead the Jets to explore waiver wire options for an interior offensive lineman. Cooper sustained a shoulder injury on Friday and might be a candidate for injured reserve.
Edge Rushers
Four edge rushers are anticipated: David Bailey, Will McDonald IV, Joseph Ossai, and Kingsley Enagbare. The team has significant investments in this position group. Nate Lynn is a potential practice squad candidate, while Braiden McGregor is among the last projected cuts. Tyler Baron is expected to start the year on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list.
Defensive Line
Five defensive linemen are projected: T’Vondre Sweat, Harrison Phillips, David Onyemata, Jowon Briggs, and Darrell Jackson Jr. Jackson has reportedly had a strong summer and earned playing time.
Inside Linebacker
Five inside linebackers are expected: Demario Davis, Jamien Sherwood, Kiko Mauigoa, Marcelino McCrary-Ball, and Mykal Walker. Walker's availability is a concern due to a recent knee injury. Mauigoa, McCrary-Ball, and Walker are noted as key special teams contributors if healthy.
Cornerback
Seven cornerbacks are projected: Brandon Stephens, Azareye’h Thomas, Jarvis Brownlee Jr., D’Angelo Ponds, Qwan’tez Stiggers, Nahshon Wright, and Jordan Clark. Clark secured the final spot due to his summer performance, despite playing a similar nickel position as Brownlee and Ponds.
Safety
Four safeties are anticipated: Minkah Fitzpatrick, Dane Belton, Andre Cisco, and Malachi Moore. Rookie VJ Payne is expected to begin the year on injured reserve. Belton is projected to start over Cisco.
Specialists
Three specialists are projected: punter Austin McNamara, long snapper Thomas Hennessy, and kicker Spencer Shrader. The team's primary kicker decision remains unclear, as Jason Sanders missed a crucial extra point and field goal in the preseason finale. Shrader, a former Jet, is currently in a competition with the Colts, and the Jets may pursue him if he does not make their roster.
