The Aaron Rodgers era in New York is officially over, and the Jets are set to undergo a full rebuild. New head coach Aaron Glenn will be tasked with repairing the once-elite Jets defense and building on the team’s young talents. Here are the top five most important players for the Jets.
5. Breece Hall, RB
Hall is currently on the trade block because Glenn has stated his desire to use a running back committee on offense. With that being said, Hall has shown flashes of brilliance despite injuries. He’s a home-run threat as a runner and also a capable pass-catcher out of the backfield.
4. Quincy Williams, LB
Williams earned an All-Pro nod in 2023 for an outstanding year, and while he wasn’t as good in 2024, neither was the entire Jets defense. Williams recorded 114 total tackles and 14 tackles for loss and will likely be a key part of Glenn’s revamped unit.
3. Quinnen Williams, DT
Brother of Quincy (and arguably the better pro), Williams recorded 37 total tackles and eight tackles for loss, including six sacks, in 2024. The three-time Pro Bowler is surprisingly mobile for a 303-pounder, allowing him to shed blocks and make plays in the backfield.
2. Garrett Wilson, WR
Wilson is a quarterback’s best friend – just put it up there, and he’ll go get it. The former Offensive Rookie of the Year put up his third straight 1,000-yard season in 2024 and scored a career-high seven touchdowns. Wilson’s incredible ball skills and impressive short-area burst will be key for new Jets QB Justin Fields.
1. Sauce Gardner, CB
Gardner may not have been his previous lockdown self in 2024, but we can reasonably expect a return to form in 2025. At his best, Gardner sticks to receivers like glue in man coverage and has the length and ball skills to consistently break up passes. If he can return to being a lockdown corner in Glenn’s defense, the Jets’ back end will benefit greatly.
