The New York Jets’ defense has been atrocious to begin the 2025 season.
While there are many reasons for New York’s poor defensive start, it all begins in the secondary. With pillow-soft coverage on a weekly basis, the Jets have allowed an opposing passer rating of 109.2, which ranks fourth-worst in the NFL.
The Jets are also one of just three teams without an interception.
New York’s ugly play in the back end comes down to the underperformance of multiple players who have fallen off a cliff. Whether it’s Sauce Gardner, Jamien Sherwood, or Quincy Williams, many of the Jets’ team leaders have performed well below expectations.
The biggest disappointment, though, might be Michael Carter II.
New York’s homegrown slot corner was one of the best players in the league at his position from 2022 to 2023. Then, he struggled through an injury-plagued season in 2024.
Returning healthy in 2025, Carter II was expected to bounce back, but that has been far from the case. Carter II has been toasted for big gains on a weekly basis.
Now, he is expected to miss time with a concussion. That leaves the door open for New York’s newest cornerback to fill his shoes: Jarvis Brownlee.
Acquired last week from Tennessee in exchange for a 2026 late-round pick swap, Brownlee is still only 24 years old after being drafted in the seventh round last year. He started 16 of his 19 games for the Titans across two seasons. Brownlee returned to practice in full this week and is expected to start for Carter II.
On film, Brownlee showcases remarkable tenacity, hustle, and tackling skills, which will be welcomed by a Jets team that has struggled in those areas. However, Brownlee has been prone to committing too many penalties, and his coverage numbers have been lackluster at best.
Can Brownlee be an immediate upgrade over the struggling Carter II? What are his strengths and weaknesses? Does he have legitimate long-term starter upside? Why did the Titans give up on Brownlee for a modest return?
We’re here to answer those questions in the latest Blewett’s Blitz film review.
Join us for a thorough breakdown of Brownlee’s All-22 film across his first two seasons in Tennessee. In addition, a full scouting report of Brownlee’s strengths and weaknesses can be found at the bottom of the page.
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