Nov 28, 2021; Houston, Texas, USA; New York Jets outside linebacker Quincy Williams (56) celebrates after sacking Houston Texans quarterback Tyrod Taylor (5) (not pictured) in the first quarter at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports
While Jets fans were busy celebrating what appears to be one of the team’s best ever draft classes (Yes, we know, on paper), there were surely a few Jets players celebrating for different reasons.
In looking over the Jets selections, it’s clear that they either had a great deal of confidence in some players who may not be household names, but could be significant contributors in the upcoming season. Which players are we referring to?
DB Jason Pinnock: Drafted as a cornerback out of Pittsburgh, Pinnock didn’t see much of the field until later in the season. When he finally saw some action, it was at safety where he started two games and looked surprisingly comfortable. With very little experience at the position on the roster, some expected the Jets to take a safety in the draft, which they did not. If Pinnock continues to grow at the position, the 2021 draft class will look that much better.
S Will Parks: The Jets added Parks, a six-year veteran, as the season came to a close. In three games (2 starts), Parks played well enough for the Jets to bring him back this season. And while it may “only” be voluntary workouts, Parks was voted leader of the DB group by teammates. Pretty impressive for a guy who has only been with the team for a few weeks of regular season football.
DL Jonathan Marshall: The interior defensive line is another spot where many expected the Jets to add a body with a draft choice as Sheldon Rankins has just one year left on his deal and there’s little depth in place. As it turns out, the Jets didn’t take a DT which bodes well for Marshall. A player whose athleticism jumped out on game days in college, he’ll surely be hoping to make the leap from end of the bench to the regular rotation.
LB Quincy Williams: Williams delivered his fair share of highlight reel hits in 2021 and his return in some capacity was welcomed with open arms by Jets fans. However, there were some questions as to whether or not the team would add a starting linebacker via the draft to get more consistent play at the position. It turns out the Jets are just fine with Quincy for the time being.
LT Mekhi Becton: It feels silly to even mention Becton here, but some actually thought there was a chance the Jets had given up on the former 11th overall pick after just two seasons. Surprise! They haven’t. Becton is still very much a part of the Jets plans and they showed that in passing on multiple premium tackles early on.