Over the past few years, the New York Jets’ defense has struggled mightily at stopping the run.
While finishing as one of the NFL’s worst overall defenses in 2025, the team allowed the fourth-most rushing yards per game in the league (139.5).
Now, after multiple key additions up front this offseason, the Jets appear far better positioned to successfully stop the run.
One of those crucial additions was the signing of veteran defensive tackle David Onyemata, a move that has flown under the radar.
According to Jets linebacker Demario Davis, who played with Onyemata in New Orleans for five seasons, Onyemata is one of the best run defenders in football.
“I’ve played with a lot of guys,” Davis said on Thursday. “He’s (Onyemata) easily the top five on the best run defenders I’ve ever played with. He makes a noticeable difference in the game and on our roster.”
The numbers back up Davis’ claim.
Last season, his 74.2 run defense grade from Pro Football Focus ranked eighth among 134 qualified defensive tackles. His 42 solo tackles also ranked ninth at the position.
At this point in his career, though, he certainly profiles as more of a run defense specialist. He has only logged a combined 4.0 sacks over the past two seasons and just 1.0 last season.
While he may not be a flashy pass rusher, Onyemata will certainly help shore up one of the Jets’ top defensive weaknesses last season: stopping the run.
Between Onyemata and players like Harrison Phillips and T’Vondre Sweat, the Jets project to have an excellent run-stopping defensive line in 2026.
