New York Jets 2017 Roster Preview: Defensive Linemen

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EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – DECEMBER 27: Sheldon Richardson (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images) /

Muhammad Wilkerson, Sheldon Richardson, Leonard Williams, and Steve McLendon

Muhammad Wilkerson has been a starter since the moment the Jets drafted him 30th overall in the 2011 NFL Draft.

In his six seasons with Gang Green, Wilkerson has started 89 games, averaging just under 60 total tackles a year. He’s also picked up 41 sacks and ten forced fumbles.

Wilkerson was a Pro Bowler in 2015 and made second-team All-Pro in 2013 and 2015.

Wilkerson’s career has had plenty of great on-field play but this year, Wilkerson has become a vocal leader.

Muhammad Wilkerson will be key to the success of the 2017 New York Jets both on the field and in the locker room.

Another New York Jets first round pick, Sheldon Richardson has started all four years after being selected 13th overall in 2013.

When healthy, Richardson has averaged just under 70 total tackles per season and recorded 18 sacks and forced five fumbles. Richardson was NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2013 and a Pro Bowler in 2014.

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Unlike Wilkerson, Sheldon Richardson hasn’t been the best leader. Chris Stephano of The Jet Press went as far as to call Richardson a clubhouse cancer.

Richardson won’t drop his feud with ex-teammate Brandon Marshall. He was also arrested for going 143 mph with 12-year-old in the car last year.

Richardson is extremely talented but needs to get his priorities straight. He is playing for a new contract this year, so hopefully, Richardson can focus on football. If he does so, he could be even more dominant than he’s been so far in his career.

The New York Jets drafted Leonard Williams sixth overall in 2015 and he’s lived up to expectations.

In two seasons, Williams has recorded 131 total tackles and ten sacks, leading to a 2016 Pro Bowl selection.

Williams is the future of the New York Jets defense. If Richardson continues to have off-field issues, the Jets will likely let him walk in free agency and go with Leonard Williams and Muhammad Wilkerson at their two defensive end spots.

New York’s starting nose tackle is expected to be Steve McLendon.

McLendon signed with the Jets last season after six years with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He replaced Damon Harrison after “Snacks” signed with the crosstown Giants.

In his one season with Gang Green, McLendon started nine games, recording 28 total tackles and 3.5 sacks. He missed time with a hamstring injury.

In a very talented defensive line group, McLendon does not stand out. However, he should still be able to win the starting nose tackle job this year.

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