The New York Jets are seeking major improvements in their defensive performance for the 2026 season with head coach Aaron Glenn, previously a defensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions. Last season, the Jets struggled defensively, allowing the league’s second-most points per game at 29.6, the fourth-most rushing yards at 139.5 per game, and ranking eighth in total yards allowed at 355.6 per game.
During the trade deadline last year, the Jets traded away two of their key defenders, All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner and Pro Bowl defensive tackle Quinnen Williams. Despite these moves, the defense for 2026 is showing promise with new talents like No. 2 overall pick David Bailey, rookie second-rounder D’Angelo Ponds, veteran All-Pro linebacker Demario Davis, and All-Pro safety Minkah Fitzpatrick joining the roster. Fitzpatrick has already impressed in training camp sessions.
Fitzpatrick joined the Jets from the Miami Dolphins in March and secured a new three-year contract worth $40 million. He made an immediate impact by intercepting a pass from quarterback Geno Smith during a Monday practice, marking the first interception in 11-on-11 drills throughout the camp. This achievement is significant for the Jets, who last season became the first NFL team to complete a season without a single interception.
Aaron Glenn praised Fitzpatrick, saying, “He’s extremely smart, and he loves football. At safety, that’s what you’re looking for. I’ve had some good safeties in my career. Early on, I like exactly where he’s at.”
Fitzpatrick was initially drafted 11th overall by the Dolphins in 2018 and was traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2019 where his career flourished. Over six seasons with the Steelers, he was selected for five Pro Bowls and received three first-team All-Pro honors. In 2022, he was the league leader with six interceptions and contributed 96 tackles and 11 pass deflections. He has amassed 21 interceptions in his career, tying him for the ninth-most since 2018.
As a versatile and impactful safety, Fitzpatrick is expected to significantly enhance the Jets’ defense, which is in desperate need of improvement for the 2026 season. Coach Glenn, a former cornerback, faces a critical season that may determine the security of his position. His defensive expertise will be crucial as the team looks to progress this year.