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2019 Fantasy Football Outlook: Jets Defense/Special Teams

By Chris Stephano

LANDOVER, MD - AUGUST 16: Linebacker Jordan Jenkins #48 of the New York Jets sacks quarterback Colt McCoy #12 of the Washington Redskins in the first quarter of a preseason game at FedExField on August 16, 2018 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)
LANDOVER, MD - AUGUST 16: Linebacker Jordan Jenkins #48 of the New York Jets sacks quarterback Colt McCoy #12 of the Washington Redskins in the first quarter of a preseason game at FedExField on August 16, 2018 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) /
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With the 2019 NFL season and fantasy football fast approaching, here’s our 2019 fantasy football outlook for the New York Jets defense/special teams.

With a new general manager, head coach, and several new players, the 2019 Jets should be dramatically improved on all sides of the ball.

However, while there are some Jets offensive players who will be worth drafting early, even the most passionate Jets fans should exercise caution playing the defense/special teams for fantasy football in 2019.

Here’s why.

Jets D/ST Units Have Been Nothing Special

2016

Sacks: 27 (ranked 29th)Interceptions: 8 (T-29th)Forced Fumbles: 18 (T-8th)Points Allowed: 409 (28th)

2017

Sacks: 28 (28th)Interceptions: 11 (T-20th)Forced Fumbles: 10 (T-28th)Points Allowed: 382 (T-22nd)

2018

Sacks: 39 (T-16th)Interceptions: 13 (T-15th)Forced Fumbles: 14 (T-12th)Points Allowed: 441 (29th)

No matter what defensive measures one looks at (see above), it’s clear the New York defense has been average/below-average over the past few years.

While the Jets have made some high profile additions on defense (i.e. C.J. Mosley, Quinnen Williams), given their recent history it’s best for fantasy football players to take a wait and see approach on this unit.

This is particularly true when you consider:

The Jets Defense Lacks An Elite Pass Rush

One particularly concerning aspect of the New York defense has been their inability to generate a consistent pass rush. As is noted in the statistics above, the Jets have failed to finish in the top half of the league in team sacks for each of the past three years.

The new additions on the defense (i.e. Mosley, Williams) will help the interior, but will do little to improve the outside pass rush.

Sacks are a great source of fantasy points, and this defense should only put up a modest number of them.

The Jets Special Teams Unit Lost Star Players

Despite their many struggles last year, there were a few bright spots for the Gang Green.

Kick returner Andre Roberts and kicker Jason Myers both had stellar seasons, making their first career Pro Bowl appearances.

Unfortunately for New York, both Roberts and Myers signed elsewhere in free agency.

Whether one is looking for traditional fantasy special teams production (i.e. kick/punt returns) or a kicker, it may be wise to look beyond the Jets in 2019.

However, there are still a few reasons to consider drafting the Jets defense/special teams.

New York face several favorable matchups in 2019, including games against the Bills (twice), Dolphins (twice), Giants, Raiders, and Bengals.

While this defense might not be elite or one that should be targeted early in the draft, they should be a solid streaming option.

Next. Jets Fantasy Football Outlook, IDPs

Bottom Line

The Gang Green defense should be better in 2019, but their deficiencies at pass rush and special teams will limit the unit’s fantasy upside.

That said, a relatively easy schedule and some intriguing potential (new coaches, new star players, etc.) makes these units worthy of a late flier draft pick.

What are your expectations for the Jets’ defense/special teams in terms of fantasy football value? Give us your take in the comment section!