Post 2016 NFL Draft: New York Jets Depth Chart

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.

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