ESPN recently ranked the most improved position groups in the NFL.
While the New York Jets did not make the top 10, one of their units appeared in the honorable mentions section: the defensive line.
New York was praised for the quantity of their additions, even if there remains uncertainty regarding which players can be counted on as surefire difference-makers.
“The Jets’ total tonnage of additions in the defensive trenches is hard to argue with: Joseph Ossai, Kingsley Enagbare, David Bailey, T’Vondre Sweat and David Onyemata. Of course, they lost Jermaine Johnson in a trade this past spring, and Quinnen Williams was made a Cowboy at last year’s trade deadline. It’s certainly a deeper group, but I’m not sure there’s a clear plus starter anywhere (besides 2025 breakout Jowon Briggs, one of the league’s best-kept secrets).”
The defensive line was a major weakness for the Jets during their 3-14 season in 2025. New York finished 31st in sacks (26). In addition, the Jets created pressure on the lowest percentage of opposing dropbacks in the entire NFL at 15.1%, according to Pro Football Reference.
As mentioned by ESPN, the Jets have undoubtedly strengthened the depth of the unit. With a plethora of additions across free agency, trades, and the draft, New York can go deeper into their rotation than last year.
However, the Jets are still waiting to see which players they can trust as stars to lead the group. The hope is that second overall pick David Bailey can become a game-wrecker in due time, but it remains to be seen how impactful he will be as a rookie.
There is also third-year defensive tackle Jowon Briggs, who rushed the passer at an elite level in the second half of 2025; New York hopes that Briggs can replicate that production over a full season.
If the Jets are going to have a turnaround season in 2026, the defensive line must be at the heart of it. The front office gave the unit the attention it needed; now, it’s up to the players and coaches to translate those investments to the field.
