New York Jets: Post-draft/free agency defense analysis
Cornerbacks
Expected Starters: Darryl Roberts, Brian Poole, Trumaine Johnson
Darryl Roberts is one of the main veteran presences in the New York Jets secondary, he will help lead the unit throughout this year. From linebacker, to free safety to cornerback, Roberts has had to adjust to many different positions during his three years in the league, which is a great thing for this defense. His flexibility allows him to be able to move around the entire defense. With all of the youth on the roster, Roberts can help open the door for younger guys to step into his vacant slots.
While only appearing in 10 games last year, Trumaine Johnson made an impact, picking off four passes and ranking seventh in the NFL during the 2018 season. His 6-2 frame is a nightmare for most receivers in 50/50 situations, he’ll be a great asset on the other side of his newly acquired teammate, Brian Poole.
As a slot corner, Poole was a great pickup for the Jets this offseason. In his first three years with the Atlanta Falcons, he put up 195 combined tackles with four interceptions and wasn’t even a consistent starter. Only starting in 21 of the 47 games he played in Atlanta. Since then Poole has proven to be a steady asset that will provide an added dimension to this Jets defense.
Last season, he had three sacks, which were third in the league among all corners, Poole will get plenty of opportunities to showcase more of his raw talent as a weekly starter for the Jets. Practicing against a quality slot-receiver such as Quincy Enunwa will give him valuable experience and season him for the important year ahead.
The Jets starting secondary is young, with Johnson being the oldest at 29. They have a great opportunity to be one of the scariest starting cores in the AFC. GM Mike Maccagnan took a chance when drafting Blessuan Austin. If the former Rutgers star is healthy, he’ll be able to provide a great backup on any given day. Rashard Robinson is another backup who hasn’t exactly burst onto the scene, but in only his third season, can add to the long list of defensive studs LSU puts into the NFL.