The New York Jets are gearing up for the new season with critical evaluations of their defensive depth chart following the recent 2025 NFL draft and OTA's. The team is expected to make some roster cuts as they prepare for mandatory mini-camp. Head coach Robert Saleh is keen on assessing the potential of players like Jermaine Johnson, who returns after a torn Achilles, and Will McDonald, who had a breakout season last year. The Jets aim to solidify their defensive line with notable talents and strategic cuts.

The defensive end position has shown promise, especially with Johnson's comeback and McDonald's impressive performance last season. However, concerns linger about players like Michael Clemons, whose performance has been underwhelming, and Rashad Weaver, who has struggled recently. The Jets are hopeful that the upcoming training camp will illuminate the best combinations for their defensive front.

The New York Jets are making headlines with recent uniform number changes for three players, allowing for a fresh start as the NFL season approaches. Defensive lineman Will McDonald IV, who had an impressive second season with 10.5 sacks, switches from No. 99 to No. 9, taking the number vacated by kicker Greg Zuerlein. Special teams ace Xavier Gipson will now wear No. 3, enhancing his visibility as a return specialist. The changes reflect the Jets' commitment to building their identity as they prepare for the upcoming challenges.

The Detroit Lions made a bold choice by drafting running back Jahmyr Gibbs with the 12th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, a move that has paid off handsomely. Gibbs, who the New York Jets had targeted for their 15th pick, has excelled in his first two seasons, earning Pro Bowl honors and leading the league in rushing touchdowns in 2024. His impressive 1,412 rushing yards in 2024 ranks him among the top performers in Lions history, only behind legends like Billy Sims and Barry Sanders.

The Jets, on the other hand, selected defensive end Will McDonald, who has also proven to be a valuable asset with a team-leading 10.5 sacks in 2024. This draft decision now serves as a crucial talking point among analysts as both teams assess their respective paths forward.

The New York Jets are set to welcome a new defensive coordinator, finalizing a deal with Steve Wilks, the former head coach of the Arizona Cardinals. Wilks, 55, has a notable coaching history, including interim head coach responsibilities with the Carolina Panthers in 2022, where he led the team to four wins in their last six games. He has also coached at the defensive coordinator level for the San Francisco 49ers, contributing to their Super Bowl run in 2023.

Wilks’ addition comes during a transitional period for the Jets. Aaron Glenn, who previously excelled as the Lions' defensive coordinator, clarified that he will not be calling the defensive plays himself. Last season, the Jets ranked 20th in points allowed but fared better in passing defense, finishing fourth overall. The Jets' defense boasts key players like Sauce Gardner, Quinnen Williams, and Will McDonald IV, providing a strong foundation for Wilks to build upon.

The New York Jets' 2024 season may have been challenging, but they secured the No. 7 pick in the upcoming draft, presenting a chance to enhance their roster significantly. Several teams drafting ahead of them, including the Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns, New York Giants, and Las Vegas Raiders, face uncertainties at the quarterback position. This could result in at least a few quarterbacks being drafted early, potentially allowing the Jets to select a star player.

Among the projected targets, Pro Football Focus experts suggest Abdul Carter from Penn State as an ideal fit for the Jets. Carter's impressive stats include a 92.2 pass-rushing grade, 12 sacks, and a 22.9 percent pass-rush win rate. His versatility as both an inside and outside linebacker further strengthens his appeal, as he would complement the Jets' current pass-rushing capabilities.