New York Jets: 5 Players to Watch vs Cincinnati Bengals

Sep 1, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; New York Jets defensive tackle Leonard Williams (92) and linebacker Erin Henderson (58) react on the sideline during the second half against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. The Philadelphia Eagles won 14-6. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

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Aug 27, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) passes as New York Jets defensive tackle Leonard Williams (92) defends during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports /

– Leonard Williams

One of the players that are projected to have a big season for the Jets is defensive end, Leonard Williams. After having a solid rookie season in 2015, Williams has been a candidate to be a breakout player this season.

In Week 1, the Jets will be without Sheldon Richardson as he serves his one-game suspension. The Jets will be asking a lot of Williams and Muhammad Wilkerson with Richardson out, as they will have to log heavy snap counts.

This preseason, the Jets’ starting defense look rather poor prior to a good showing against the New York Giants. The one player that played noticeably well, however, was Williams. Generating a pass rush was an issue for the Jets without Wilkerson, but Williams was one of the few players who looked good with Wilkerson out.

When the two were together against the Giants, quarterback Eli Manning was harassed in the pocket. In Week 1, Williams and Wilkerson will try to replicate the pressure they got on Manning when they face off against Andy Dalton.

Next: D-LEE

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