How much of an impact will Jermaine Johnson make on the New York Jets’ defensive line to open the 2025 season?
Many Jets fans are looking for the answer to that question. After the Florida State product suffered a torn Achilles in Week 2 of last season, it is uncertain how he will perform upon returning.
According to Johnson himself, the arrow is pointing up.
In a post on X, Johnson revealed that he has been breaking personal records in the gym that he had set before his injury.
The Jets edge rusher also shared videos of himself sprinting, noting on Instagram that he reached a top speed of 19 miles per hour during 20-yard bursts.
Selected in the first round of the 2022 NFL draft, Johnson has appeared in 33 games for New York (19 starts) while posting 88 total tackles (15 for loss) with a forced fumble, seven passes defended, 10 sacks, and 21 quarterback hits.
In 2023, Johnson took a significant sophomore leap, playing in 17 games (all starts) while logging 7.5 sacks, seven passes defended, a pick-six, 55 total tackles, and 16 quarterback hits.
Now entering his fourth NFL season, Johnson is expected to play a vital role in Aaron Glenn’s aggressive front four. If healthy, his strength and speed off the edge could elevate a Jets pass rush already featuring stars like Quinnen Williams and Will McDonald.
The team will likely ease Johnson back into action during training camp, but early signs suggest Johnson is on track to make a meaningful impact in Week 1. His return will inject talent and experience into a promising defensive line rotation for Gang Green.