Being voted a captain by teammates in the NFL is a meaningful honor, and New York Jets linebacker Marcelino McCrary-Ball is embracing the role as Gang Green’s special teams captain for the 2025 season.
Speaking to the media on Monday, McCrary-Ball emphasized the importance of being voted a captain by his peers.
“It means a lot,” said McCrary-Ball. “To be named captain, recognized by my peers, and to see that they believe in me to lead the special teams, it is an honor for sure.
“There could have been a lot of other guys that could be named captain. The way I play, with my teammates, I want them to know I’m reliable, I’m there. … The journey is still ongoing, so I’m not done yet.”
After an uneven preseason, the 26-year-old McCrary-Ball was not widely regarded as a lock to earn a spot on the team’s 53-man roster, making his rise to special teams captain all the more notable.
Through two preseason games, the Indiana product was shaky on defense, missing two tackles and posting a 40% missed tackle rate. In coverage, he allowed four completions on five targets for 49 yards, an average of 12.3 yards per catch. His 75.3 special teams grade, however, ranked sixth on the team.
McCrary-Ball was left off the Jets’ initial 53-man roster last season but still appeared in 12 games. He played only three defensive snaps yet logged 199 on special teams, finishing with four tackles and two misses. His performance earned a 70.3 special teams grade from PFF, which ranked seventh on the team.
Once an undrafted free agent competing for a roster spot, McCrary-Ball has carved out a leadership role in New York. Now, with his teammates’ trust, the 26-year-old linebacker carries the responsibility of setting the tone for the Jets’ special teams unit in 2025.
