The 2016 NFL Draft and the main portion of free agency is in the books so it’s time to take a look at the projected New York Jets Depth Chart.
The New York Jets Depth Chart is one of the more unsettled in the NFL. They lack a clear-cut starter at quarterback, need to figure out the defensive line and will have some competition at inside linebacker.
Quarterback
Starter: Ryan Fitzpatrick
Backups: Christian Hackenberg and Bryce Petty
It may drag out a little longer, but Ryan Fitzpatrick will likely be back in a Jets uniform. Its a tough situation for Fitzpatrick because there just aren’t many teams interested in his services at his price tag.
If Fitzpatrick is back in the fold look for Geno Smith to be let go. Oddly enough, Smith is the teams likely starter if Fitzpatrick doesn’t come back.
Running Back
Starter: Matt Forte
Backups: Bilal Powell, Zac Stacy and Khiry Robinson
Matt Forte is getting up there in age, but New York likes what they have in Bilal Powell and will give him carries. Look for Stacy to get some of the short-yard touches.
Wide Receiver
Starters: Brandon Marshall and Eric Decker
NO. 3: Kenbrell ThompkinsBackups: Devin Smith, Quincy Enunwa and Charone Peake
The Jets need Devin Smith to step up and provide them with an explosive down-field option. Otherwise, this is a talented group that loves to get physical on the outside.
Left Tackle
Starter: Ryan Clady
Backups: Breno Giacomini and Ben Ijalana
The starters are solid, but the lack of depth needs to be a major concern. Clady’s injury history makes the lack of depth even more of a problem.
Left Guard
Starter: James Carpenter
Backups: Dakota Dozier and Brandon Shell
James Carpenter provided strong play last year and has a hold on the starting job. Dozier and Shell are too capable backups.
Center
Starter: Nick Mangold
Backup: Wesley Johnson
Mangold’s age is starting to become a concern, but he’s still one of the better centers in the NFL.
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Right Guard
Starter: Brian Winters
Backups: Dakota Dozier and Brandon Shell
This is the one offensive line position where training camp could determine the starter. Winters is the leader in the clubhouse but there’s room for improvement.
Right Tackle
Starter: Breno Giacomini
Backups: Brandon Shell and Ben Ijalana
The right tackle position is similar to the left tackle spot in that things are in good hands as long as Giacomini stays healthy.
Tight End
Starter: Jace Amaro
Backups: Kellen Davis and Zach Sudfeld
It’s a make or break season for Jace Amaro who has the raw talent to be a difference maker in the passing game.
Defensive End
Starters: Muhammad Wilkerson and Sheldon Richardson
Backups: Leonard Williams and Jarvis Jenkins
The defensive line is the most talented group on the roster. However, things will be interesting to watch this year as the Jets look to replace Damion Harrison and find a way to get their three best players on the field.
Nose Tackle
Starter: Steve McLendon
Backups: Sheldon Richardson, Muhammad Wilkerson and Leonard Williams
McLendon was brought in to clog the middle of the difference, but will likely be on the sideline for a lot of the game. The Jets will figure out a way to get Wilkerson, Richardson and Williams on the field at the same time.
3-4 Outside Linebacker
Starters: Lorenzo Mauldin and Jordan Jenkins
Backups: Trevor Reilly and Deion Barnes
New York’s pass rush is going to have to come from its defensive linemen because this group isn’t too inspiring. Mauldin is developing and has the speed to attack off the edge. However, he still needs time to establish new pass rush moves.
Inside Linebacker
Starters: David Harris and Darron Lee
Backups: Bruce Carter and Erin Henderson
The inside linebacker position has some good depth and athleticism. Lee is the interesting player here because he has the physical tools to be a playmaker. However, he is going to struggle at the point of attack.
Cornerback
Starters: Darrelle Revis and Marcus Williams
Nickelback: Buster Skrine
Backups: Dee Millner, Dexter McDougle and Juston Burris
It’ll be interesting to see is Dee Millner can finally live up to his draft position. This is his last chance to establish himself as a starter in New York.
Safety
Starters: Calvin Pryor and Marcus Gilchrist
Backup: Dion Bailey
Pryor and Gilchrist really complement each other with Pryor being the big hitter and Gilchrist strong in coverage.