Although the New York Jets are expected to make a few headline-grabbing signings in free agency, this offseason is also full with quiet acquisitions to be made. Three defensive role players in particular, who did a fantastic job in 2023, are expected to become free agents soon. As rotational players, safety Ashtyn Davis, whose rookie contract is about to expire, and veteran defensive tackles Solomon Thomas and Quinton Jefferson all made noteworthy contributions. The Jets can probably afford to retain all three of them until 2024, since they are interested in doing so. In 2023, Ashtyn Davis, S. Davis, a vital member of the special team, was valuable as a stand-in at safety. The 2020 third-round draft choice made five starts in all 17 games and recorded career highs in passes defensed (8) and interceptions (3). In addition, he recorded three fumble recoveries and three tackles for loss. Since being selected in the first round by the Jets out of California, where starting quarterback Aaron Rodgers went to college, 27-year-old Davis has participated in 54 games. It’s unlikely that New York will need to spend a fortune to maintain its native safety.
DT Solomon Thomas After spending four years in San Francisco under defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, the former No. 3 overall draft pick has contributed to the development of a culture in New York. Over the last two seasons, Thomas has participated in all 34 Jets games and totaled 57 tackles, 10 quarterback hits, and nine tackles for loss. He participated in 43% of defensive snaps in 2023, which helped him record a career-high 5.0 sacks. Saleh’s technique works well with the dependable professional, who was nominated for Walter Payton Man of the Year in New York. Related: Quinton Jefferson, the former safety of the Seahawks, and DJ Reed of the Jets want to reunite. For the one-year contract he signed this offseason, Jefferson delivered a lot of value. Alongside Pro Bowler Quinnen Williams in the Jets’ lineup, the battle-tested defensive tackle, who has started games for the Seahawks, Raiders, and Bills, recorded a career-high 6.0 sacks. The 30-year-old Jefferson started all 14 of his games and played defense for 469 snaps, accumulating 34 stops and 13 quarterback hits. According to reports, he received $3.6 million in pay last year.
