The New York Jets face a critical decision at the safety position, with Dane Belton and Andre Cisco actively competing for the starting role alongside Minkah Fitzpatrick. The preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers provided a significant stage for this competition.
Belton, who started the recent preseason matchup, has shown consistent playmaking throughout training camp, suggesting he may have taken the lead in the competition. Cisco, however, made a notable impact with an interception during the game. Prior to training camp, Cisco was considered to be ahead of Belton.
Coach Aaron Glenn acknowledged the intensity of the competition, stating, "It was a competition from the very beginning, and those guys know it." He added that having players "fighting it out, guys making play after play" is beneficial, even if it leads to difficult decisions. Glenn praised Cisco's interception as a "really good pick" and Belton's "hell of a play on special teams," noting that special teams is a strong area for him. The team intends to "let it play out and see what happens" before making a final decision.
Belton joined the Jets as a free agent after standing out on special teams for the Giants. He is expected to be a core special teams player for the Jets, participating in multiple units. However, his potential to play significant defensive snaps, estimated at 60-70 plays per game, could impact his special teams availability.
Cisco's performance last year was described as underwhelming, yet the team re-signed him, and he appears to be a preferred player by the coaching staff. "Again, at some point we've got to make a decision," Glenn said.
Defensive Line Impact
Separately, defensive end Nate Lynn impressed his teammates with a two-sack performance against the Steelers. Lynn, who was signed by the Jets just days before the game after being released by the Titans in April, quickly integrated into the team.
"It's crazy," said defensive tackle Harrison Phillips. "I thought he was like a six-year veteran guy who’s been in the league and played a ton of snaps, just the way he handles himself, the way he was able to pick up the playbook, his energy. It's crazy to me that a player like that was on the couch. It's incredible."