Jets LB Jordan Jenkins is a man of action

The New York Jets need more production from their edge rushers in 2019, and Jordan Jenkins knows that actions speak louder than words.

Heading into the 2019 offseason, the Jets knew they needed to boost their pass-rushing ranks. But after missing out on Anthony Barr in free agency, the Jets are left needing the players they already have to step up in a big way this year.

One player hoping to take his game to the next level is Jordan Jenkins, who tied for the team lead with seven sacks in 2018.

Jenkins wants to keep improving, but he’s more interested in letting his play on the field do the talking (via team reporter Ethan Greenberg):

I can’t just say, ‘I think I should get this number of sacks, x number of TFLs.’ I feel like I can be as great as I can be, but I have to go out there and put the work in. I can’t just say the words and not put in the work.

Now, I’m at the point where I sort of realized what I can do. I have to keep working and mentally prepare myself to have that mentality every time that I can do this and I need to do that much and more.

Jenkins’ position coach, Joe Vitt, loves the skill set he brings to to the table, as well as his mentality, work ethic, and approach to the game:

More of an athletic guy than I originally thought. He’s got great bend, he’s got better foot work than I thought, and he’s gotten extremely strong this offseason. He can bend an edge. He’s worked hard, he’s smart, he’s picked up the defense very quickly. He’s a pleasure to be with in the classroom because he’s engaging. So, I suspect and would anticipate him having a great year.

Jenkins put up the best numbers of his career last year, despite dealing with a shoulder injury. Back at full strength this season, he should be primed for yet another career year under new defensive coordinator Gregg Williams, who loves putting his defenders in position to make big plays in his aggressive, attacking scheme.

If Jenkins is able to stay fully healthy for the entire 2019 season, it shouldn’t be a surprise if he flirts with the double-digit sack mark.

What are your expectations for Jenkins and the Jets defense in 2019? Can Jenkins top the 10-sack mark this year? Give us your take in the comment section!