New York Jets sign linebacker Kevin Pierre-Louis

The New York Jets signed a backup linebacker, Kevin Pierre-Louis.

The New York Jets are working hard to fill out all ends of the roster. We have talked in the past about the need for role players. It’s not only the stars that make a team complete, it’s the backups and the specific role players that complete the team. Yesterday, the Jets added a linebacker that fits the bill:

It is always important to have a solid rotation on defense. We know that Todd Bowles and Kacy Rodgers like to roll out a lot of different formations and coverages. Having the ability to rotate different linebackers in and out give the defense a fresh look and fresh pairs of legs, especially late in games.

Last season, Pierre-Louis played for the Kansas City Chiefs and put up a career high in tackles with 35 and passes defended with two. He’s no sack man but he will be able to help the Jets defend against the run. Pierre-Louis can also take the pressure off of players like Josh Martin and Jordan Jenkins. Saving their legs will help them close out games in the fourth quarter.

He also is an able-bodied special teams player. The Jets are fairly deep at linebacker, we know who the starters are. One of the fastest ways to make your mark on a football team is through special teams. Ask Terrell Davis all about that. If Pierre-Louis can make some plays on specials during the preseason he could find his way onto this roster come opening day.

Next: Jets move up to number three in the draft

After the trade to move up to number three, it’s difficult to say that Mike Maccagnan is doing a bad job. No, he didn’t land the prized quarterback, but the moves have, for the most part, been good. Maybe he spent too much on Josh McCown but other than that, he has done a good job

It might not work out but he is doing things the right way and that is all we can ask for as Jets fans.