Jets linebackers getting used to new defense, each other

The New York Jets added some top talent at linebacker this offseason, and the entire position group is using mandatory minicamp to get familiar with the new defense, as well as each other.

While the addition of star running back Le’Veon Bell stole most of the headlines for the Jets this offseason (and with good reason), there was another big signing by the Gang Green that could have a similar level of impact.

This move came on defense, signing free agent linebacker C.J. Mosley, a four-time Pro Bowler who was surprisingly allowed to walk by the Baltimore Ravens.

Mosley isn’t the only fresh face in New York on the defensive side of the ball, as new coordinator Gregg Williams is now tasked with installing a new scheme under head coach Adam Gase.

An experienced leader with tons of success under his belt, Mosley is working hard to get acclimated to Williams’ defense, as well as his new teammates. Mosley has been connecting particularly well with Avery Williamson, a fellow SEC alum (via team reporter Randy Lange):

He’s a southern guy, I’m a southern guy, SEC, SEC. So far we’re just learning our play style. My main thing with the linebackers, Mike and Will, make sure we’re talking and we’re on the same page. As time gets better, we’ll figure out more and more what we’re best at and when it comes to matchups and things like that, we’ll get that going.

Williamson knows Mosley to be a man of few words who leads by example, and they’re both working hard to help lessen the team’s learning curve with the new defensive scheme:

C.J. just says the play, he doesn’t say too much else. But we definitely are starting to get used to each other. We’re just kind of throwing things around out there, helping each other out as much as possible. It’s definitely going good and we’re just continuing to get to know each other. … Good dude.

There’s plenty of talent elsewhere on the Jets defense, as well. Pro Bowl safety Jamal Adams is the vocal leader of the bunch, and a dynamic playmaker in his own right. Veteran defensive lineman Leonard Williams is the anchor up front, and he’ll be joined this year by No. 3 overall pick Quinnen Williams, arguably the best overall prospect in this year’s draft class.

After losing out on Anthony Barr in free agency, bringing Mosley into the fold was a massive win for the Jets defense this offseason. He’s already making an impact with his combination of leadership, intelligence and experience, and once game action begins, he’ll be showing off the playmaking ability that’s made him one of the league’s top players at his position.

Don’t be surprised if Mosley plays a huge role in the Jets making a massive turnaround in 2019, both as a defense and as a team.

How will Mosley and the rest of the Jets linebackers impact the entire defense this year? Will Gregg Williams’ scheme allow them to be more successful than in recent years? Give us your take in the comment section!